When we talk about athletes, we often focus on stats, championships, and highlight reels. But there’s another scorecard that grabs headlines in 2025 the bank account. And right now, Lionel Messi is sitting at the top of that podium as the world’s richest athlete, with a staggering net worth of over $1.3 billion.
At Big Eye Comedy, we love a good underdog story, and while Messi is no underdog on the field, his financial journey is a masterclass in how to dribble through life’s challenges and score big on and off the pitch. In this post, we’ll break down how Messi built his empire, what makes him different from other wealthy athletes, and why he’s more than just a GOAT he’s a global business.
Who Is Lionel Messi?
For the uninitiated (or the aliens just tuning into Earth sports), Lionel Messi is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Messi’s career took off at FC Barcelona, where he spent more than two decades racking up goals, trophies, and global admiration.
Today, he plays for Inter Miami in the MLS but calling him just a player would be like calling Elon Musk “just a guy with a car company.” Messi is a brand, a movement, and a billion-dollar business.
Messi’s Net Worth in 2025: Over $1.3 Billion
According to the latest Forbes and Sportico estimates, Lionel Messi has officially crossed the $1.3 billion mark in career earnings. That includes salaries, endorsement deals, business ventures, and bonuses that make most CEOs look like unpaid interns.
Let’s break it down:
On-Field Earnings (Approx. $700 Million)
Even before joining Inter Miami, Messi was cashing in at astronomical levels:
Barcelona (2003–2021): Over $600 million in salary and bonuses.
Paris Saint-Germain (2021–2023): Estimated $75 million across two seasons.
Inter Miami (2023–Present): While his salary is reported to be around $20 million per year, it comes with massive side benefits, including:
Revenue share from Apple TV+ MLS broadcasts.
A stake in the MLS franchise and potential ownership.
Branding deals that tie directly into the league’s growth.
Off-Field Earnings (Over $600 Million)
This is where Messi shines like a diamond-studded football boot.
Endorsements:
Adidas (Lifetime Deal): Estimated $20 to 25 million annually.
Pepsi, Lay’s, Budweiser, and Hard Rock Cafe: These brands don’t just want his face—they want his global reach.
Apple: His arrival in the U.S. reportedly came with collaboration opportunities tied to Apple’s sports streaming vision.
Business Ventures:
Messi Store: His clothing line and lifestyle brand has expanded globally, targeting both fans and fashion-forward youth.
Real Estate: Messi owns properties in Barcelona, Miami, Paris, and Ibiza.
Hotel Investments: The MiM hotel chain, managed by Majestic Hotel Group, is part of Messi’s growing hospitality empire.
How Messi Became the World’s Richest Athlete
1. Consistency Is King
Unlike many athletes who peak and fade, Messi has been elite for two decades. That level of performance translates into contract renewals, bonus structures, and unmatched loyalty from sponsors.
2. Global Appeal
Messi isn’t just loved in Argentina or Spain he’s a global icon. His move to the MLS increased the league’s visibility across Latin America, Asia, and Europe. In business terms, Messi has multi-market penetration he’s a walking multinational corporation.
3. Low Controversy, High Marketability
Let’s be honest some athletes make headlines for the wrong reasons. Messi has mostly kept his name clean, making him a safe and lovable brand ambassador. His humility and family man image resonate across generations.
4. Strategic U.S. Entry
His move to Inter Miami wasn’t just about football it was a business play. Partnering with David Beckham’s franchise, aligning with Apple’s MLS ambitions, and investing in U.S. property markets all reflect a masterclass in leveraging your final playing years for maximum financial gain.
The Competition: Who’s Chasing Messi?
Messi may be at the top, but he’s not alone in the athletic billionaire club. Here’s a quick look at the athletes closing in behind him:
LeBron James – $1.2 Billion
The NBA legend remains a powerhouse in endorsements (Nike, Pepsi, Beats by Dre), media (SpringHill Company), and investments (Liverpool FC, Blaze Pizza). His on-court earnings are only part of the story he’s more of a mogul than a baller at this point.
Cristiano Ronaldo – $1.1 Billion
CR7’s contract with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia is reportedly worth $200 million per year. Combined with his CR7 brand, multiple hotel ventures, and lifelong Nike deal, Ronaldo remains a commercial juggernaut.
Floyd Mayweather – $1 Billion+
While retired, “Money” Mayweather remains a marketing genius. His exhibition matches, promotions, and investments keep the cash flowing. He might not play team sports, but he’s always in a league of his own.
Tiger Woods – $1.1 Billion
Despite injuries and controversies, Tiger remains one of the richest athletes in history thanks to Nike, luxury sponsors, and smart business moves including golf course design and equity stakes in leagues.
Messi vs. Ronaldo: The Billionaire Battle
The Messi-Ronaldo debate has dominated football for over 15 years. Now it’s spilled over into the bank. While both have joined the billionaire club, Messi’s strategic moves in the U.S. and broader lifestyle branding have given him a slight financial edge in 2025.
| Category | Messi | Ronaldo |
|---|---|---|
| Net Worth | $1.3 Billion | $1.1 Billion |
| Key Market | U.S., LATAM | Middle East |
| Brand Deals | Adidas, Apple | Nike, Binance |
| Clubs | Inter Miami | Al-Nassr |
| Social Reach | High | Highest |
The Messi Empire: Beyond the Field
In 2025, Messi’s name isn’t just on jerseys it’s on buildings, TV deals, hotel chains, fashion labels, and even in gaming. EA Sports’ FC 24 continues to feature him prominently, and he’s rumored to be investing in esports and NFT-based collectibles.
And let’s not forget Messi’s philanthropy. Through the Leo Messi Foundation, he supports children’s health, education, and sport access worldwide adding heart to the empire.
What Sets Messi Apart?
Legacy: He’s not just rich he’s legendary.
Longevity: Over 20 years at the top level.
Likeability: The world sees him as human, humble, and heroic.
Business Acumen: He’s making power moves in tech, fashion, and media.
Global Timing: His rise coincided with the explosion of digital streaming, international football popularity, and sports branding.
Final Whistle: Billion-Dollar Goals
In 2025, Lionel Messi isn’t just the world’s richest athlete he’s the blueprint for how to build legacy, loyalty, and luxury. He didn’t just play the game he rewrote the playbook.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone who can’t tell the difference between a corner kick and a corner office, Messi’s story is one of hard work, strategy, and smart money moves. From kicking a ball in the streets of Rosario to owning franchises and fashion labels, he reminds us that greatness isn’t about where you start it’s about where you choose to go. And if you’re not a billionaire yet, don’t worry just stick with Big Eye Comedy. We’ll keep bringing the laughs, the insights, and maybe a little financial inspiration. Who says humor and hustle don’t mix?
