Messi vs Ronaldo: Who Earns More?

Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 was a major moment in football, not just for the club but for the sport as a whole. Since his arrival, the Argentine star has helped Inter Miami win their first two trophies. However, beyond his success on the pitch, Messi’s move has also had a huge financial impact.

Many expected Messi’s transfer to North American football to bring in millions, with sponsorship deals and ticket sales skyrocketing. Comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract at Al Nassr were immediate, but matching Ronaldo’s massive $200 million annual salary in Saudi Arabia seemed unlikely.

Now, nearly two years after Messi joined Inter Miami, his financial influence is clear. Every match he plays is sold out, the club has made millions from international tours, and both Messi and Inter Miami have gained big sponsorship deals. But how does his income compare to Ronaldo’s?

Messi vs Ronaldo: Salary and Endorsements

According to Forbes, Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest-paid athlete in the world. The Portuguese superstar earns a total of $260 million per year—$200 million from playing in Saudi Arabia and $60 million from endorsements.

Messi, despite boosting Inter Miami’s value and global appeal, earns less from football. His salary at the MLS club is $65 million per year, but he makes more than Ronaldo off the pitch, bringing in $75 million through sponsorship deals. This brings his total yearly earnings to $135 million, placing him third among the world’s highest-paid athletes, behind golfer Jon Rahm ($218 million).

While Ronaldo remains football’s highest-paid player, Messi’s move to the United States has made him one of the most marketable athletes globally. Both players continue to dominate football, not just in terms of talent but also financially.