You know that feeling when you watch someone make something impossible look easy? That’s Lionel Messi. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or someone who only watches the World Cup, you can’t deny the magic he brings to the game. Every goal, every dribble — it’s poetry in motion.
But here’s what’s really interesting — Messi isn’t just a football genius; he’s also messi net worth one of the wealthiest athletes on the planet. And to be honest, it’s not just his talent that got him there — it’s his discipline, smart choices, and an unwavering love for the game.
So, if you’ve ever wondered how much Lionel Messi is actually worth, how he makes his money, and what his luxurious yet surprisingly grounded lifestyle looks like, buckle up. Let’s dive into the incredible story behind Lionel Messi’s net worth — a tale of talent, tenacity, and triumph.
Lionel Messi Net Worth in 2024
The Big Number
As of 2024, Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated to be around $650 million. Some estimates even place it closer to $700 million, depending on sponsorships and business ventures.
That’s right — the little boy from Rosario, Argentina, who once needed growth hormone treatments to pursue his football dream, is now one of the richest athletes in the world.
And the best part? He earned it all while staying true to who he is — humble, hardworking, and family-oriented.
How He Built That Fortune
Messi’s wealth didn’t just come from his football salary (though that’s a massive part of it). Over the years, he’s built multiple income streams that keep his fortune growing, from endorsement deals to brand ownership and investments.
But before we dive into the money, let’s talk about how it all started.
The Journey from Rosario to Riches
The Early Struggles
Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina. His talent showed early — at just 6 years old, he was already dazzling coaches with his skills at Newell’s Old Boys. But there was one major obstacle: a growth hormone deficiency.
His family couldn’t afford the expensive treatment. Most clubs wouldn’t take the risk of paying for it. But then, a miracle happened — FC Barcelona saw his potential and offered to cover his medical costs.
At just 13, Messi and his father moved to Spain so he could join La Masia, Barcelona’s youth academy. To be honest, that decision changed football history forever.
The Rise to Stardom
Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004 — and it didn’t take long for the world to realize they were witnessing greatness. His balance, control, and vision were something else. He wasn’t just playing football; he was redefining it.
Over the next two decades, Messi would win everything imaginable:
- 10 La Liga titles
- 4 Champions League trophies
- 7 Ballon d’Ors (and counting!)
- 1 Copa América title
- And, of course, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, completing his legendary legacy
Each win didn’t just add to his fame — it added millions to his net worth.
How Lionel Messi Makes His Money
Football Salary and Contracts
Messi’s football contracts have always been record-breaking.
At Barcelona, his 2017 contract was reportedly worth over $600 million over four years, including bonuses. That made him the highest-paid footballer in the world at the time.
When he moved to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021, his contract reportedly paid him around $75 million per year, plus performance-related bonuses and image rights.
In 2023, he joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). While his salary there is lower compared to his PSG days, it comes with an incredible twist — profit-sharing deals with Adidas and Apple TV+, as part of his MLS partnership. That means Messi earns a percentage from new subscribers and sales generated by his presence in the league.
Talk about smart business!
Endorsements and Brand Deals
Messi is one of the most marketable athletes on Earth. He’s been the face of major global brands for decades.
Some of his biggest endorsement deals include:
- Adidas – Messi has been with Adidas since 2006 and even has his own line of shoes and apparel. His lifetime deal is worth hundreds of millions.
- Pepsi, Budweiser, Lay’s, and Ooredoo – All major partnerships that add millions annually.
- Apple, Gatorade, and Hard Rock Café – His collaborations go beyond sports into lifestyle and entertainment.
His endorsement income alone is estimated at $50–60 million per year.
The Messi Brand
In recent years, Messi has also focused on building his own brand — The Messi Store, which sells premium lifestyle apparel and accessories.
He’s also made strategic investments in real estate and technology startups, ensuring that his fortune continues to grow even after retirement.
Lifestyle: A Blend of Luxury and Humility
Homes and Cars
Let’s be honest — if anyone deserves a bit of luxury, it’s Lionel Messi. After all, he’s been entertaining the world for decades.
Messi owns several stunning properties, including:
- A luxurious mansion in Castelldefels, near Barcelona, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
- A family home in Rosario, Argentina
- A modern estate in Miami, Florida, purchased after joining Inter Miami
Each home is designed to reflect his taste — elegant, warm, and family-centered.
When it comes to cars, Messi’s garage features some serious horsepower. From Ferraris and Audis to Range Rovers and a rare Pagani Zonda, his collection is worth millions. But he’s not known for flaunting it — in true Messi fashion, he keeps things classy and understated.
Family and Philanthropy
One of the most beautiful things about Messi’s success is how grounded he remains. Despite being one of the richest athletes alive, he prioritizes his family — his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three sons: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro.
They’re often seen traveling together, attending events, or just enjoying downtime.
But here’s something you might not know: Messi is also deeply philanthropic.
He founded the Leo Messi Foundation, which focuses on improving healthcare, education, and sports access for children worldwide. He’s donated millions to hospitals, schools, and charities.
And during the COVID-19 pandemic, Messi donated significant amounts to hospitals in Spain and Argentina to help fight the crisis.
That’s the kind of wealth that truly makes a difference.
Comparing Messi’s Wealth to Other Football Legends
Messi vs. Ronaldo vs. Neymar
It’s impossible to talk about Messi’s net worth without comparing him to other football icons.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top three:
| Player | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | $650 million |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | $600 million |
| Neymar Jr. | $250 million |
While Ronaldo has historically earned more from endorsements, Messi’s recent moves into MLS and his long-term deals with Adidas and Apple have strengthened his financial position.
To be honest, it’s less about who’s richer — and more about how both Messi and Ronaldo elevated football to global business status.
Messi’s Influence Beyond Money
The Emotional Wealth of a Legend
Let’s step away from numbers for a moment. Because Messi’s true “net worth” can’t just be measured in money — it’s measured in legacy.
He’s inspired millions of kids to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they seem. He’s shown that humility and excellence can coexist.
And his 2022 World Cup victory? That was the emotional jackpot. Watching him lift that trophy after years of heartbreak was like watching destiny unfold. You didn’t have to be Argentinian to cry in that moment — you just had to be human.
That’s the kind of wealth that lasts forever.
What’s Next for Lionel Messi?
The Future Looks Bright
At 37, Messi might be in the later stages of his playing career, but don’t think he’s slowing down. His move to Inter Miami isn’t just about football — it’s about global expansion.
He’s helping grow soccer in the United States, inspiring a new generation of fans. His presence has already caused a massive boost in MLS viewership and ticket sales.
And after retirement? Expect Messi to stay deeply involved in sports through coaching, business, or philanthropy.
Knowing him, he’ll keep it classy and meaningful — just like everything else he’s done.
Conclusion
So, what’s the real story behind Lionel Messi’s net worth? It’s not just about $650 million in the bank — it’s about decades of dedication, humility, and heart.
From a small boy in Rosario struggling to afford treatment to becoming one of the most celebrated and wealthy athletes in history — Messi’s journey is nothing short of magical.
He reminds us that success isn’t about fame or fortune alone; it’s about purpose, passion, and persistence.
And honestly, if there’s one thing we can all learn from Messi, it’s this: your size doesn’t define your strength — your heart does.
FAQs
Q1: What is Lionel Messi’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Lionel Messi’s estimated net worth is around $650 million, making him one of the richest athletes in the world.
Q2: How does Lionel Messi make his money?
Messi earns from multiple sources, including his football salary, endorsements (especially Adidas), his clothing brand, real estate investments, and his MLS profit-sharing deals.
Q3: What is Messi’s salary at Inter Miami?
Messi reportedly earns about $54 million annually from Inter Miami, plus additional bonuses and profit-sharing from sponsorships with Adidas and Apple TV+.
Q4: Is Lionel Messi richer than Cristiano Ronaldo?
Their net worths are very close, with Messi slightly ahead in 2024. However, both players have earned over $1 billion throughout their careers, cementing their place as football’s financial titans.
