Messi and Ronaldo: The Financial Rivalry Beyond the Field

For over a decade, the competition between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has transcended goals and titles, evolving into a battle of financial influence and brand power, marking one of the most intense rivalries in modern sports history.

Beyond the Ballon d'Or and Champions League titles, both stars have become economic titans, competing for lucrative sponsorship deals, advertising contracts, and record-breaking salaries, extending their rivalry beyond the playing field.

Ronaldo Joins the Billionaire Club

In 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a historic milestone off the pitch by becoming the first footballer to join the billionaire ranks, thanks to his substantial contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.

A comprehensive assessment of his assets and investments estimates Ronaldo's net worth at approximately $1.4 billion, marking his debut in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, a first for the football world.

Astronomical Contracts in Europe

During their peak years in Europe, the salary race between these two stars was fierce. At Barcelona, Messi secured record contracts, including his last deal, which exceeded €555 million over four years, making it the most expensive in sports history.
Conversely, Ronaldo shattered financial ceilings at Real Madrid and Juventus, where his net salary surpassed €30 million annually in Serie A, setting a new standard for elite athletes in Europe.

Ronaldo's Move to Al-Nassr: A Game Changer

Ronaldo's transfer to Al-Nassr has dramatically altered the landscape. Estimates suggest his annual income, including commercial and marketing benefits, reaches around $200 million, making him the highest-paid athlete in team sports globally.
This transfer was not merely a sporting move but a strategic investment that has redefined the global football market, ushering in a new financial era.

Messi and the Smart Partnership Model

On the other hand, Lionel Messi has taken a different route with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His base salary is estimated between $20 and $25 million per year, but this is not his primary revenue source.
Messi relies on an innovative revenue-sharing model with partners like Apple and Adidas, where his earnings are linked to the growth of TV subscriptions and product sales, potentially boosting his income to $50 or $60 million annually, or more as the market expands.

Direct Income vs. Long-Term Investment

The contrast between the two stars reflects a distinct philosophy:
Ronaldo focuses on direct and substantial income from a pure sports contract, providing him an immediate financial advantage.
Messi bets on a long-term model based on partnerships and shared growth, tying his success to that of Major League Soccer itself.
The Billion-Dollar Battle Continues
While Ronaldo currently leads in direct income, Messi's project in North America presents broader investment dimensions that could yield significant returns in the long run.