Lionel Messi Net Worth, Salary, Family and Biography 2025

Lionel Messi, often regarded as one of the greatest football players in history, has captivated millions with his extraordinary talent, determination, and achievements on the field. His success is not limited to football; Messi’s off-field ventures and endorsements have made him one of the richest athletes in the world. As of 2025, Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated to be $650 million, accumulated through his illustrious career and lucrative brand collaborations.

This article explores Lionel Messi’s financial journey, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a global icon, including his salary, endorsements, investments, and lifestyle.

Lionel Messi Biography

SectionDetails
NameLionel Messi
Net Worth (2025)$650 Million
Date of BirthJune 24, 1987
Age (2025)38
Birth PlaceRosario, Argentina
Early LifeJoined Newell’s Old Boys at 6; diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency; moved to La Masia (Barcelona) at 13
Career Start2004 (FC Barcelona debut)
Key Achievements – 7 Ballon d’Or awards
– 10 La Liga titles
– 4 UEFA Champions League titles
– 2022 FIFA World Cup winner
– All-time top scorer for Barcelona (672 goals)
Club Career – FC Barcelona (2004–2021): Peak salary $120M/year
– PSG (2021–2023): $41M/year
– Inter Miami (2023–): $50-60M/year (salary + revenue shares)
Endorsements – Adidas (lifetime deal, $20M/year)
– Visit Saudi ($25M/year)
– Pepsi, Mastercard, Gatorade, Budweiser
Investments – Real Estate: Properties in Barcelona, Miami, Rosario (total $100M+ value)
– Messi Store (clothing line)
– MiM Hotels (boutique chain in Spain)
Annual Earnings$120M+ (peak salary + endorsements)
Philanthropy – Leo Messi Foundation (education, healthcare for children)
– Pediatric cancer treatment donations
Lifestyle Assets – Luxury cars (Ferrari 335 S Spider, Pagani Zonda Tricolore)
– Private jet (Embraer Legacy 650)
– Miami mansion ($50M)
FamilyMarried to Antonela Roccuzzo; three sons (Thiago, Mateo, Ciro)

Lionel Messi Net Worth Summary 2025

As of 2025, Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated to be around $650 million, making him one of the wealthiest athletes in the world. This extraordinary figure is a reflection of his iconic football career, lucrative endorsement deals, and smart business ventures.

Earnings from Football Contracts

A major portion of Messi’s wealth has come from his football contracts. His most recent move to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS) has added a new layer to his earnings. While his exact contract details have not been fully disclosed, early reports indicate he earns approximately $50 million annually, which includes salary, bonuses, and profit-sharing opportunities tied to the club’s revenue, such as his involvement in ticket sales and sponsorships.

Prior to joining Inter Miami, Messi played for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he was reportedly paid $41 million per year in wages and secured hefty bonuses tied to performance metrics. His contracts throughout his career have consistently placed him among the highest-paid footballers in the world.

Endorsement Deals

Messi’s off-the-field earnings are equally impressive, driven by long-standing partnerships with globally renowned brands. His lifetime endorsement deal with Adidas is one of his most significant sources of income. This partnership alone contributes an estimated $20 million annually to his earnings, confirming his status as a global icon.

Another major endorsement deal comes from his association with Visit Saudi, which reportedly pays him around $25 million annually as part of a tourism campaign. This deal sparked some controversy, given geopolitical implications, but it has still bolstered Messi’s overall earnings.

Messi’s global endorsements mirror the business empire of Jay Z net worth, built through music, luxury brands, and tech investments. Curious how their wealth-building compares? Explore the details.

Business Ventures

Messi has also ventured into business, with investments that ensure financial stability beyond his football career. He owns the Messi Store, a premium clothing brand that has enjoyed global success, as well as upscale properties in Spain and Miami, the cumulative value of which exceeds $100 million.

Financial Milestones

A significant financial highlight of Messi’s career came with rumors of a potential $1 billion contract from Saudi Arabian football, reportedly discussed in 2023. While he ultimately chose to join Inter Miami, this staggering offer demonstrated the unparalleled financial pull Messi holds in global football.

Impact of the 2022 World Cup

Messi’s triumphant performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he captained Argentina to victory, further solidified his legacy and earning potential. The win not only bolstered his marketability but also earned him substantial additional bonuses from sponsors and the Argentine Football Association, potentially adding millions to his wealth.

Total Financial Picture

With earnings from football contracts, endorsement deals, and business ventures combined, Lionel Messi’s net worth of $600 million in 2025 places him among the elite athletes whose wealth continues to grow even beyond their active careers. Messi’s financial achievements are as awe-inspiring as his feats on the field, making him both a football legend and a global business icon.

Key Facts

  • Barcelona contract paid him $160 million per year
  • Makes $40-60 million per year from endorsements
  • Is the highest paid athlete on the planet
  • Total annual income typically tops $200 million
  • Has earned over $1.6 billion in his career from all sources
  • Has earned around $900m in salary
  • Has earned around $400 million from endorsements

$1 Billion Saudi Contract

In 2023, Lionel Messi made global headlines with reports that he had been offered a staggering $1 billion contract by the Saudi Arabian Pro League. The offer, spread over two years, would have made it one of the most lucrative deals in the history of sports. It was seen as an attempt to bring Messi to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing football league, following the country’s high-profile signing of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Why the Offer Was Significant

The contract was extraordinary not just for its enormous financial value but also for what it represented. Saudi Arabia has been making massive investments in football as part of its Vision 2030 program, aiming to increase tourism, diversify the economy, and boost its global sports profile. Adding a player of Messi’s caliber to the league would have been a monumental step in this mission.

The offer also emphasized Messi’s unparalleled value in the football world, highlighting his ability to command record-breaking sums even as he approached the latter years of his career. Compared to his previous earnings, this deal would have eclipsed any contract he had signed before, positioning him as a key part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to transform its sports landscape.

While the Andrew Tate net worth thrives on digital ventures, Messi’s $1 billion Saudi offer highlights sports’ role in wealth creation. See how their paths differ? Discover the contrasts.

Messi’s Decision

Despite the allure of a $1 billion payday, Messi chose not to accept the Saudi offer. Instead, he decided to join Inter Miami in the United States’ Major League Soccer (MLS), a move that was more than just about money. Messi’s decision prioritized his family’s lifestyle preferences, the opportunity to expand his global footprint in the American market, and a chance to grow football in a region where the sport has ample room for development.

Impacts on His Career

While Messi declined the Saudi deal, it still underscored his unique position as one of the most marketable and sought-after athletes in the world. The offer reinforced his career as a financial and cultural powerhouse, generating debates worldwide about the balance between money, legacy, and personal values in professional sports. The decision also highlighted a shift in Messi’s focus from purely financial gains to long-term goals, including staying connected to the global football community and creating lasting social and cultural impacts through his career moves.

Inter Miami

Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 was a groundbreaking moment for Major League Soccer (MLS) and American football as a whole. After turning down a reported $1 billion offer from Saudi Arabia’s Pro League, Messi joined the MLS side with a deal estimated to earn him $50-60 million annually, including salary, bonuses, and revenue-sharing agreements from club sponsors, ticket sales, and even a share of Apple TV’s streaming revenue tied to the league.

Contract and Adjustments

Messi’s contract with Inter Miami isn’t just about on-field performance; it’s a testament to his influence beyond football. The deal includes provisions that allow him to build long-term partnerships with global brands and grow his business ventures in the U.S. market. It also reportedly gives him options for partial team ownership after his playing career, a rare opportunity that reflects his unmatched stature in the sport.

Impact on Inter Miami and MLS

Messi’s arrival immediately elevated Inter Miami’s profile and made MLS a focal point of international attention. Inter Miami saw a massive surge in ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and social media followings. For example, the club’s Instagram following alone skyrocketed to over 10 million, rivaling global football giants. Messi not only brought unprecedented media coverage but also attracted top-tier players eager to play alongside him in Miami.

On the field, Messi transformed Inter Miami’s fortunes. He helped the team win the Leagues Cup 2023, marking the club’s first-ever major trophy. Messi’s magic on the pitch, including an astonishing streak of goals and assists, turned Inter Miami from a struggling side into a competitive powerhouse. Stadiums sold out every time Messi played, setting new attendance records.

Significance for Messi’s Career

The move to Inter Miami symbolized more than just another chapter in Messi’s career – it marked his desire to expand football’s reach in North America while securing his legacy beyond Europe’s top leagues. Transitioning to the MLS after winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 with Argentina showcased a different focus for Messi, one centered on personal and global growth for the sport.

Adidas Endorsement

Lionel Messi’s partnership with Adidas is one of the most iconic and enduring endorsement deals in sports history. Messi signed his first deal with Adidas back in 2006, shortly after beginning his professional football career. The relationship evolved over time, culminating in a lifetime deal reportedly signed in 2017, which ensures that Messi remains one of the brand’s primary global ambassadors throughout and beyond his playing career.

Nature of the Deal

Adidas has made Messi the face of their football division for well over a decade. The lifetime contract reportedly earns him around $20 million annually, making it one of his most consistent and lucrative streams of income. This deal also includes special bonus payouts tied to his performance and major accolades, such as winning the FIFA World Cup 2022 or other prestigious titles. Messi exclusively wears Adidas boots during games, and they have created several signature lines of football shoes inspired by him, such as the Adidas Messi series.

Significance in His Career

The partnership with Adidas has not only contributed significantly to Messi’s overall earnings but also elevated his personal brand to a global scale. Adidas has leveraged Messi’s immense popularity to market their products worldwide, particularly targeting football enthusiasts and younger audiences. The collaboration has resulted in countless campaigns that emphasize Messi’s humility, dedication, and extraordinary talent—all values that align closely with the Adidas brand.

Additionally, the partnership has allowed both Messi and Adidas to benefit from key moments in his career, most notably his historic victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. During the tournament, Messi was frequently seen promoting Adidas products, which helped the brand solidify its position as a market leader in football gear.

Financial Contributions

Over the years, the endorsement deal with Adidas has contributed an estimated $200 million or more to Lionel Messi’s total wealth. The lifetime nature of the agreement ensures that this partnership will remain a crucial element of his financial portfolio even after he retires from playing.

Visit Saudi Endorsement Deal

Lionel Messi’s endorsement partnership with Visit Saudi, part of Saudi Arabia’s tourism drive, has been both financially rewarding and a source of public debate. Reportedly signed in 2022, the deal is estimated to earn Messi around $25 million annually, further cementing his status as one of the most marketable athletes in the world. The agreement makes Messi a global ambassador for the country, promoting Saudi Arabia as a premier travel destination.

Nature of the Agreement

Under this deal, Messi actively participates in promotional campaigns highlighting Saudi Arabia’s history, culture, and tourist attractions. From family-friendly destinations to luxurious retreats, Messi’s involvement is intended to boost the nation’s appeal to international travelers. The partnership also aligns Messi with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a broad initiative aimed at diversifying the economy, which includes a significant focus on sport and tourism development.

Significance for Messi’s Career

This endorsement adds another significant revenue stream to Messi’s portfolio, capitalizing on his unparalleled global reach and ability to influence millions. The partnership has also expanded Messi’s presence in the Middle East – an emerging hub for world-class events and celebrity engagements. For Messi, it reflects his continued relevance as a high-profile brand ambassador even at the senior stages of his legendary career.

Controversies and Public Reactions

The deal has not been without its critics. Saudi Arabia’s human rights record has sparked debates around Messi’s involvement, with many questioning his decision to align with the country. Some human rights advocates have suggested that Messi’s endorsement is part of a larger effort to “sportswash” the nation’s image. Despite this, Messi has avoided directly addressing the controversy, while his loyal fanbase remains largely supportive of his career decisions.

Financial and Strategic Impact

From a strategic and financial perspective, the $25 million-a-year agreement reflects Messi’s enduring ability to secure contracts at the very top of the sponsorship market. It also positions him within a growing trend of high-profile athletes forming ties with Saudi-backed entities, further highlighting his appeal in diverse markets.

2022 World Cup

Lionel Messi’s performance in the 2022 FIFA World Cup stands as the crowning achievement of his illustrious career, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest players. Leading the Argentina national team to victory, Messi finally secured the elusive World Cup title on December 18, 2022, in a dramatic final against France, which ended in a 3-3 draw and was decided by penalties (4-2 in favor of Argentina).

Key Achievements

  • Messi scored a total of 7 goals in the tournament, including 2 crucial goals in the final. His impact was further amplified by 3 assists, showcasing his ability as both a scorer and a creator.
  • He became the first player in World Cup history to score in every stage of the knockout rounds – from the Round of 16 to the final.
  • For his incredible performance throughout the tournament, Messi was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the World Cup, making him the first player to win this honor twice (having also received it in 2014).

This long-anticipated triumph was particularly significant as it fulfilled a lifelong dream not just for Messi but also for millions of Argentine fans. The victory brought comparisons to the legendary Diego Maradona, further solidifying Messi’s place in football history.

Impact on His Career

Winning the World Cup was a defining moment in Messi’s career that erased any lingering doubts about his status as an all-time great. The achievement silenced critics who previously argued that his lack of a World Cup trophy kept him behind Maradona and Pele in the rankings of football legends. It also symbolized the culmination of nearly two decades of excellence and dedication to the Argentina national team.

Influence on Marketability and Endorsements

Messi’s World Cup victory created a surge in his global popularity. His social media post celebrating the win became the most-liked photo on Instagram, with over 75 million likes, highlighting the cultural and social impact of his achievement. For sponsors, Messi’s newfound status as a World Cup-winning icon increased his value exponentially, ensuring continued demand for him as a global brand ambassador.

Brands like Adidas, which released special Messi-themed boots for the World Cup, and Pepsi, which featured him prominently in campaigns, capitalized on his success. His association with Visit Saudi and other endorsements also gained greater visibility as Messi stood at the peak of his career, with an estimated annual endorsement income of $50 million or more.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Lionel Messi was born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, to a working-class family. From a young age, Messi showed an innate passion for football, joining his local team, Newell’s Old Boys, at just six years old. However, Messi faced a significant hurdle in his early years – a growth hormone deficiency that required costly medical treatment.

Recognizing his potential, FC Barcelona offered Messi an opportunity to join their youth academy, La Masia, at 13 years old, covering his medical expenses. This move marked the beginning of an extraordinary career that would change the footballing world forever.

Career Achievements and Earnings

Messi debuted for Barcelona’s first team in 2004 at just 17, quickly becoming the centerpiece of the club’s success. Over the next two decades, he broke countless records, including the most goals scored in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and a single season.

Earnings with Barcelona

During his time at Barcelona, Messi’s salary made him one of the highest-paid athletes globally. At his peak, Messi earned over $120 million annually from salary and bonuses.

Transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)

In 2021, financial issues forced Barcelona to part ways with their talisman. Messi signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he earned a salary of approximately $41 million per year, along with performance bonuses and a share of image rights revenue.

Move to Inter Miami

In 2023, Messi made headlines by joining Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, bringing his global stardom to the U.S. While his salary in the MLS was lower than in Europe, lucrative sponsorship deals and a stake in the club significantly boosted his income.

International Success

Messi’s crowning achievement came in 2022 when he led Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup, further cementing his legacy and increasing his marketability.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Messi’s on-field brilliance has attracted some of the world’s biggest brands. His endorsements contribute significantly to his net worth, with annual earnings exceeding $50 million from sponsorships alone.

Key Partnerships

  • Adidas: Messi has a lifetime endorsement deal with Adidas, earning millions annually and serving as the face of the brand’s football division.
  • PepsiCo: Messi has been a longstanding ambassador for Pepsi, featuring in global advertising campaigns.
  • Mastercard: Messi endorses financial services giant Mastercard in various regions.
  • Other Brands: He has collaborated with Gatorade, Budweiser, and Huawei, among others.

Investments and Business Ventures

Lionel Messi’s financial acumen extends beyond football. He has diversified his wealth through various investments and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Real Estate

Messi has invested heavily in real estate, owning properties in Barcelona, Rosario, and Miami. His luxurious home in Castelldefels, near Barcelona, is famously nicknamed the “Messi Mansion.”

Messi Store

Messi launched his fashion line, the Messi Store, in collaboration with designer Ginny Hilfiger. The store offers premium apparel and accessories and has gained popularity among fans worldwide.

Hotel Chain

Messi owns a chain of boutique hotels under the MiM Hotels brand, located in prime locations across Spain. This venture has added another layer to his growing financial portfolio.

Luxurious Lifestyle

Messi’s net worth is evident in his opulent lifestyle. He owns a fleet of luxury cars, including a Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, one of the most expensive cars in the world, as well as Range Rovers, Audi SUVs, and a Pagani Zonda Tricolore.

Messi also owns a private jet customized for his family, featuring luxury amenities and personalized designs. Despite his wealth, Messi is known for his grounded personality and close-knit family life with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three children.

Philanthropy

Lionel Messi is not just a footballing legend but also a compassionate philanthropist. Through the Leo Messi Foundation, he has supported education, healthcare, and sports initiatives for underprivileged children. Messi has also made substantial donations to hospitals, including funding for pediatric cancer treatment.

Did you know? Lionel Messi has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2010. In 2016, he donated $2 million to fund education programs for Syrian refugee children, collaborating with UNICEF to build schools in conflict zones. This initiative has provided over 50,000 children access to safe learning environments.

Comparison with Other Athletes

Lionel Messi’s net worth of $650 million places him among the richest athletes globally. While comparable to Cristiano Ronaldo and other sports icons like LeBron James, Messi’s wealth is uniquely tied to his loyalty, humility, and unparalleled skill.

What do you think is Lionel Messi’s most significant contribution to the sport of football beyond his on-field achievements? Comment below.

Final Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Lionel Messi’s net worth is estimated to be $650 million as of 2025.

Messi earns around $120 million annually, including his salary and endorsements.

Messi owns the Messi Store, a fashion line, and a chain of boutique hotels called MiM Hotels.

Messi owns properties in Barcelona, Rosario, and Miami, with his most famous residence being the “Messi Mansion” near Barcelona.

Yes, Messi runs the Leo Messi Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, and sports programs for children in need.

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