As of 2024, Lionel Messi has a staggering net worth of $650 million. Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, Messi’s wealth is a reflection of his extraordinary talent, numerous professional contracts, lucrative endorsements, and smart investments.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi’s early life was modest. His father, Jorge Horacio Messi, worked in a steel factory, and his mother, Celia Maria Cuccittini, was a part-time cleaner. Messi joined the local soccer club Newell’s Old Boys at just six years old, showcasing exceptional talent from a young age. However, at age 10, he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency, which posed a significant obstacle to his career. Unable to afford the expensive treatment, Messi’s family sought financial assistance, eventually finding it in an unexpected place.
The Move to FC Barcelona
Messi’s breakthrough came when FC Barcelona offered to cover his medical expenses in exchange for him joining the club. In 2001, Messi moved to Spain and joined Barcelona’s famed youth academy, La Masia. His league debut for Barcelona at just 17 marked the beginning of an illustrious career. Messi quickly became a key player for the club, scoring goals and winning numerous titles, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
Major Achievements
Messi’s career has been filled with accolades. Over his 17 years with Barcelona, Messi scored 672 goals in 778 games, won multiple Ballon d’Or awards, and led the team to countless victories. His crowning achievement came in 2022, when he led Argentina to a World Cup victory, cementing his legacy as one of soccer’s greatest legends.
Salary and Endorsements
Messi’s earnings are as impressive as his on-field success. In 2017, he signed a contract with Barcelona that paid him an average annual salary of $168 million. On top of that, Messi earned approximately $40 million annually from endorsements with companies like Adidas, Pepsi, and others. Over his career, Messi has earned over $900 million in salary and $400 million in endorsements, totaling over $1.3 billion in career earnings.
Post-Barcelona Career
In August 2021, Barcelona’s financial troubles forced the club to let Messi go. He then signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a contract worth $75 million per year. However, in June 2023, Messi made headlines again by joining Inter Miami, an MLS team co-owned by David Beckham. This move included a unique deal involving revenue sharing from Apple’s MLS Season Pass subscriptions.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Messi has been sponsored by Adidas since 2006, becoming their leading brand ambassador after originally being signed by Nike at the age of 14. His lifetime endorsement deal with Adidas is a major contributor to his income. Additionally, in January 2021, Messi signed a three-year deal with Saudi Arabia to promote tourism, a deal that could earn him up to $25 million.
Philanthropy
Beyond his soccer career, Messi is known for his charitable efforts. He founded the Leo Messi Foundation in 2007, focusing on education and healthcare for underprivileged children. He also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi donated $1 million to aid in the fight against the virus and took a 70% salary cut to ensure that no Barcelona staff would suffer wage cuts.
Personal Life
Messi is married to Antonella Roccuzzo, his childhood sweetheart from Rosario. The couple has three children: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. Messi’s family remains close-knit, and his father, Jorge Messi, has managed his career as his agent since he was 14. His brother oversees his publicity, ensuring that Messi’s brand and personal life are handled within the family.
Real Estate Investments
Messi’s wealth extends into real estate as well. In 2009, he purchased a home in Barcelona’s Pedrables neighborhood for $2 million, later spending millions more on renovations. Today, the property is valued between $7 million and $10 million. Additionally, Messi owns two condos in Miami, purchased in 2019 and 2021 for $5 million and $7.3 million, respectively.
Impact on Soccer
Lionel Messi’s influence on soccer is unparalleled. From his early challenges with growth hormone deficiency to becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in history, his journey is an inspiration to millions. Messi is more than just a soccer player; he is a global icon, a philanthropist, and a role model for aspiring athletes around the world.
Conclusion
With a net worth of $650 million, Lionel Messi’s financial success mirrors his legendary status in the world of soccer. From his humble beginnings in Rosario to his global success with Barcelona, PSG, and now Inter Miami, Messi’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and excellence. His contributions to both soccer and philanthropy make him a truly extraordinary figure, whose legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
