Lionel Messi Becomes a Billionaire Footballer, Second Player After Cristiano Ronaldo to Achieve This Milestone

Lionel Messi has officially become a billionaire footballer, making him the second player to achieve this milestone after Cristiano Ronaldo. Since 2007, Messi’s total earnings from salaries, bonuses, and commercial contracts have surpassed 1 billion US dollars.

According to Bloomberg’s analysis, the 38-year-old Messi has earned over 700 million US dollars solely from salaries and bonuses since 2007. When factoring in taxes, investments, and income from various business deals, his total net worth has exceeded 1 billion US dollars. Recently, Messi also became the owner of Cornella, a Spanish fifth-division club.

Currently playing for the American club Inter Miami, Messi has further increased his wealth through investments and brand partnerships off the field. Cristiano Ronaldo became a billionaire footballer after joining the Saudi club Al Nassr in 2023.

Messi’s popularity continues to grow in the United States. As preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are underway, the city of Berkeley Heights in New Jersey has named a street “Leo Messi Way.” With a population of approximately 13,000, Berkeley Heights honored Messi’s contributions to football by renaming a section of Sherman Avenue as “Leo Messi Way.” Having led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022, Messi has now also established himself as an influential figure in American football culture.