On August 31, Lionel Messi shocked fans by announcing his retirement from the Argentina national team. The legendary footballer revealed that he had decided to bid farewell to his home country just two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the recent death of his father, Jorge, made him even more convinced about his decision.
The Inter Miami star admitted that closing a chapter after more than two decades hurts deeply, but he has given everything he had to Argentina. "I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football," he wrote on Instagram.
Following Lionel Messi's retirement announcement, social media has been flooded with tributes celebrating the footballer's journey. For those curious about just how rich the Argentine legend is, we've got you covered!
What is Lionel Messi's net worth
Messi has an estimated net worth of $1 billion, according to Celebrity Net Worth and Forbes.
For those unaware, he began his football journey in 1995 when he joined the youth team of Newell's Old Boys, having previously played locally for Abanderado Grandoli from the age of four. He made his senior international debut for Argentina on August 17, 2005, in a friendly against Hungary, and there was no looking back.
He has since represented Argentina at six FIFA World Cups and earned more than $700 million in salary and bonuses throughout his career. The Argentine star also continues to earn millions with David Beckham's team, Inter Miami. As the club's captain, he reportedly earns between $70 million and $80 million a year.
In addition to his football earnings, he earns money through brand endorsements (Adidas, Lay's, Gatorade) and private investments. He has launched several business ventures, including MiM Hotels, The Messi Store apparel, the hydration drink Mas+ by Messi, and his production company 525 Rosario.
If reports are to be believed, he makes around $3 million per Instagram post. That said, he owns several luxury homes across Spain, Argentina, and the United States worth millions.
He is living life king-size.
**(Feature Image Credits: Lionel Messi Instagram)**ALSO READ | Lionel Messi retires from Argentina national team after father's death: 'I've given everything I had'
