How Lionel Messi Became A Billionaire

BETAThis is a BETA experience. opt-out hereBusinessDaily CoverHow Lionel Messi Became A BillionaireBig Score: Lionel Messi, who has ranked among the world’s five highest-paid athletes for 13 years straight, now has a net worth of $1.1 billion, according to Forbes estimates.Luis Robayo/AFP/Getty ImagesByHank Tucker,Forbes Staff. Hank Tucker is a Forbes staff writer covering finance and investing.Follow AuthorJun 05, 2026, 02:00am EDTThe Argentine superstar is one of just four athletes to have joined the three-comma club while still active in their sports—and is one of two new billionaires competing at this year’s World Cup.