Lionel Messi doesn't need to prove anything anymore. The guy has won it all. But here's the thing—his move to Inter Miami in 2023 wasn't just about winding down his career. It actually opened up a whole new chapter in how he makes money.
When Messi joined David Beckham's MLS club, everyone thought it was just a nice retirement tour. Instead, he's turned American soccer upside down. Stadiums are packed wherever he goes, and every match feels like a global event. For bettors following MLS odds, Inter Miami instantly became the league's most watched and wagered-on team.
The 8-time Ballon d'Or winner now earns differently than his Barcelona days. Instead of just collecting a massive salary, the 38-year-old has built multiple income streams. We're talking endorsements, business ventures, and commercial deals that keep growing his fortune even as his playing days wind down.
The Numbers: Messi's $850 Million Fortune
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Messi sits on roughly $850 million. That makes him one of the richest athletes on the planet. Most of that wealth came from his years at Barcelona, where he signed contract after record-breaking contract.
But nowadays, his salary is just one piece of the puzzle. Sponsorships and brand partnerships bring in serious cash too.
What Messi Actually Earns at Inter Miami
Messi's contract runs through the 2028 MLS season after signing an extension with Javier Mascherano's squad. His base salary sits at $12 million per year, but his guaranteed compensation jumps to about $20.5 million. That's the highest in MLS history—no player has ever commanded that kind of money in American soccer.
Here's where it gets interesting. Messi's deal is tied to MLS sponsors Apple and Adidas. He gets a cut from Apple TV's MLS Season Pass subscriptions and Adidas merchandise sales. Smart money, right? Plus, he has an option to buy into Inter Miami ownership when he hangs up his boots.
Over his entire career, Messi has pulled in around $1.6 billion just from salaries. Then add roughly $70 million yearly from endorsements with giants like Adidas, Pepsi, Mastercard, Budweiser, and Gatorade. He's also sitting on diversified assets worth over $40 million.
Beyond the pitch, Messi's building a business empire. He launched Mas+, his own sports drink. He owns a production company called 525 Rosario that creates sports and entertainment content. The 4-time Champions League winner also invested heavily in hotels and real estate through his MiM Hotels group, with properties in Miami, Spain, and popular European spots.
For punters keeping tabs on Inter Miami's title chances, Messi's presence alone shifts the betting landscape. His influence extends beyond performance—it affects ticket sales, viewership, and even merchandise revenue that impacts the club's overall strength.
