Lionel Messi has crossed into billionaire status. The Argentine star now sits alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in football's most exclusive wealth club.
Bloomberg reports the 38-year-old has accumulated over $700 million in salaries and bonuses since his 2007 professional debut. When sponsorships, investments, and taxes are factored in, his net worth has surpassed $1 billion.
Ronaldo reached billionaire status first after joining Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr FC in 2023. His estimated net worth stands at $1.4 billion according to Bloomberg's index.
Messi's path to wealth differed markedly from his rival's approach. He famously rejected a $400 million annual offer from Saudi Arabia to join Inter Miami.
Money wasn't the priority, Messi insisted at the time. His family and trusted advisers have guided his wealth accumulation carefully over the years.
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas revealed what the World Cup winner earns annually. Messi pulls in between $70 million and $80 million through salary, equity options, and revenue-sharing tied to Apple TV.
His arrival transformed the club's finances dramatically. Inter Miami's valuation has jumped to $1.45 billion, making it America's most valuable football franchise.
Beyond the pitch, Messi's business empire spans multiple sectors. His father Jorge and banker Alfonso Nebot Armisen oversee an extensive investment portfolio worth $232 million in Spain alone.
Real estate, hotels, and commercial properties form the foundation. He's also ventured into food and beverages with his Mas+ sports drink brand.
Argentine restaurant chain El Club de la Milanesa counts him as an investor. These moves demonstrate his growing business sophistication.
As his playing career winds down, Messi is positioning himself for life after football. He recently purchased Spanish lower-division side UE Cornella outright.
He holds a stake in Uruguay's Deportivo LSM alongside former teammate Luis Suárez. His family also operates Los Rosario restaurant Los Leones.
These ventures cement his long-term ties to the sport. Messi appears determined to remain a football power player for decades ahead.
