Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Andrés Messi, the captain of the Argentina national team and hero of their FIFA World Cup 2022 triumph, celebrates his 38th birthday today, June 24, 2025.
Messi began his remarkable career at FC Barcelona, where he won a record 34 trophies, including 10 LALIGA, seven Copa del Rey, and four UEFA Champions League. He became the first player to win the Ballon d’Or four times in a succession, for a total of eight. After two seasons with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he joined the Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in 2023. On the international level, Messi led Argentina to Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
As of mid-2025, Messi is Argentina’s most capped player (193 appearances) and top scorer (112 goals). Throughout his career, he has amassed 866 goals and 386 assists in official matches, more than 1,250 goal contributions, and is still one of football’s most prolific playmakers and finishers.
As the GOAT turns 38, his effect is felt in more ways than ever. Messi is a transcendent personality, whether he’s scoring goals, establishing commercial empires, or converting Inter Miami into a global brand. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, talk grows over whether the legend will return on the world stage. Whatever happens next, one thing is certain: Lionel Messi is more than simply a football player; he is a living legacy.
Messi is widely considered as one of the best football players of all time, and his influence has spread far beyond football, altering markets, inspiring fans, and revolutionising every organisation he touches. Let’s take a closer look at Messi’s growing empire, including his net worth, endorsement portfolio, investments, and philanthropic initiatives.
Net worth:
Lionel Messi’s net worth in 2025 is expected to be between $850 million and $1 billion. Throughout his career, he has earned more than $1.6 billion in football contracts and endorsements. Following legendary years at Barcelona and a time at PSG, his transfer to Inter Miami in 2023 has raised MLS’ global status.
Messi makes $50-60 million per year at his current club, plus additional earnings from revenue-sharing partnerships with Apple TV, Adidas, and MLS. His deal also includes the opportunity to purchase shares in the team, placing him not just as a player but also as a potential owner in the burgeoning US football market.
Endorsement:
Messi’s endorsement portfolio is one of the most profitable in world sports. His lifetime contract with adidas is anticipated to bring in $20-25 million per year and may be worth more than $1 billion throughout his career. The football legend also works with brands including PepsiCo, Budweiser, KRÜ Esports, Royal Caribbean International, Ooredoo, Lay’s, Jacob & Co., Hard Rock International, Socios.com, SIRIN LABS, SikSilk, LEAFTY, Mengniu, Orcam, Saudi Tourism Authority, Mastercard, Bitget, BYJU’S, Sorare and J&T Express.
Off-field revenue from these transactions is expected to be between $60 and $100 million each year.
Investments:
Messi’s investments demonstrate a smart and diverse approach. He owns luxury real estate in Miami, Barcelona, Ibiza, and Rosario, with property assets worth over $40 million. His MiM Hotels company, which includes upscale places in Spain and Andorra, is believed to be worth more than $100 million. He has created several companies in recent years, including MÁS+ hydration drinks, Messi Fragrances, and 525 Rosario, a sports and entertainment media organisation. His Play Time investment firm also backs digital and sports media businesses in Silicon Valley, which aligns with his long-term business objectives.
His lifestyle reflects his prosperity. Messi has an impressive collection of rare automobiles, including a Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti and a Pagani Zonda Tricolore. He also has a special Gulfstream V private plane with his trademark No. 10 and his family’s names inscribed on the stairs.
Charity:
While Messi’s global brand continues to rise, his philanthropic efforts remain just as significant. Since 2007, the Leo Messi Foundation has stood up for issues in healthcare, education, and youth development throughout Latin America, Africa, and Europe, constructing hospitals, supporting scholarships, and establishing sports facilities in neglected regions.
During the COVID-19 crisis, he gave more than €1 million to hospitals in Spain and Argentina. Messi has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2010, actively supporting child welfare, clean water, and early education efforts. In 2025, he increased his dedication to young football by partnering with long-time friend Luis Suárez to establish Deportivo LSM in Uruguay, with the goal of nurturing and developing future potential.
