Lionel Messi no longer needs to prove anything on the pitch, but he continues to do so. And while he continues to shine with Inter Miami and remains an absolute reference in world soccer, his economic income confirms that his figure remains a global phenomenon. According to Forbes, the Argentine star accumulated $130 million in 2025, a figure that positions him as the second highest paid soccer player of the year, only behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads with a staggering $280 million.
Messi’s total combines sporting salary and lucrative commercial deals that continue to expand his off-field empire. Market giants continue to bet on his image, proving that his brand remains one of the most profitable on the planet. At 37 years of age, Messi remains not only footballingly relevant, but also as one of the most valuable figures in international sport.
The football economic rankings for 2025 also feature stars such as Karim Benzema ($104 million), Kylian Mbappe ($95 million), Erling Haaland ($80 million), Vinicius Junior ($60 million), Mohamed Salah ($55 million), Sadio Mane ($54 million), Jude Bellingham ($44 million) and Lamine Yamal ($43 million), reinforcing the financial dominance of elite football.
LeBron James, the only one who surpassed Messi
Globally, the only one who managed to surpass the Argentine’s income was LeBron James. The NBA legend closed the year with $132.6 million, including $52.6 million from his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers and an impressive $80 million from commercial deals. A clear reflection of what he represents, not only as a sportsman, but also as a consolidated brand worldwide.
LeBron, like Messi, is in the final stages of his sporting career, but he continues to dominate through influence, leadership and media impact. Both are still in force, they are still decisive in their leagues and, above all, they continue to move amounts of money that are only within the reach of the true giants of sport.
Messi, more relevant than ever
In short, Messi not only competes on the pitch, but also in the business of sport. His $130 million keeps him at the top of the global economic rankings and confirms that he remains one of the most powerful figures on the planet. Performance, image, leadership and continuity: the Argentine is still synonymous with greatness… also in finance.
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