I Am Puma Messi: A Look into the Net Worth of the Football Legend
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, has made a name for himself not only on the pitch but also off it. With numerous endorsement deals, business ventures, and investments, Messi's net worth is staggering. In this article, we'll delve into the financial empire built by the Barcelona legend and Puma ambassador.
Early Life and Football Career
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi began playing football at a young age. He joined the youth academy of Newell's Old Boys before moving to Spain to join Barcelona's youth academy at the age of 13. Messi made his professional debut for Barcelona in 2004 and has since become an integral part of the team, winning numerous titles and individual awards.
Endorsement Deals and Sponsorships
Messi's massive popularity and success on the pitch have made him a sought-after endorsement opportunity for top brands. Some of his most notable endorsement deals include:
- Puma: Messi has been associated with Puma since 2018, reportedly earning around $20 million annually.
- Adidas: Before switching to Puma, Messi was sponsored by Adidas, where he earned around $10 million annually.
- Pepsi: Messi has been a brand ambassador for Pepsi since 2012, earning around $5 million annually.
- Gatorade: He has also been a brand ambassador for Gatorade since 2013, earning around $2 million annually.
Business Ventures and Investments
Messi has invested in various business ventures, including:
- The Messi Store: A clothing and accessories store launched in 2019, offering a range of products, including football gear and lifestyle accessories.
- Messi's Hotel: A five-star hotel in Messi's hometown, Rosario, which opened in 2018.
- Real Estate: Messi has invested in several real estate properties around the world, including apartments, houses, and commercial buildings.
Net Worth
According to Forbes, Messi's net worth is estimated to be around $400 million, making him one of the richest athletes in the world. His net worth is comprised of:
- Salary and Bonuses: Messi earns an annual salary of around $80 million from Barcelona, plus bonuses.
- Endorsement Deals: He earns around $40 million annually from endorsement deals with top brands.
- Business Ventures and Investments: His business ventures and investments generate around $20 million annually.
- Other Income: Messi earns additional income from appearance fees, licensing agreements, and other sources.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi's net worth is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and success on and off the pitch. With a diverse portfolio of endorsement deals, business ventures, and investments, Messi has built a financial empire that will continue to grow for years to come. As one of the most marketable athletes in the world, Messi's Puma partnership is just one aspect of his impressive net worth.