Lionel Messi`s Contract Salary: A Look into the World`s Highest-Paid Footballer

Lionel Messi is no stranger to big numbers. He has scored over 700 career goals, won six Ballon d`Or awards, and has been named the best player in the world countless times. However, his contract salary may be his most impressive feat yet. In August 2021, Messi signed a new contract with French football team Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), worth an estimated €35 million ($41 million) per year after taxes. So what makes Messi`s contract so significant, and how does it compare to other footballers?

The Breakdown

Let`s start with the basics. Messi`s contract with PSG is a two-year deal with the option for a third year. This means that Messi will be earning €35 million per year until at least 2023, with the possibility of extending his contract through 2024.

But that`s not all. Messi also reportedly received a €30 million ($35 million) signing bonus when he joined PSG in August. This brings his total earnings for the 2021-2022 season to a whopping €75 million ($88 million).

To put this into perspective, the world`s second-highest-paid footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo, earns an estimated €31 million ($36 million) per year. This means that Messi`s salary is over 10% higher than Ronaldo`s.

How Does Messi`s Salary Compare to Other Athletes?

While Messi`s salary is impressive, it`s important to remember that he is not the highest-paid athlete in the world. In fact, his estimated earnings for the 2021-2022 season put him at number 7 on Forbes` list of the world`s highest-paid athletes.

The top spot on the list goes to professional boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr., who earned an estimated $450 million in 2020. Other athletes on the list include tennis player Naomi Osaka, golfer Tiger Woods, and basketball player LeBron James.

However, it`s worth noting that Messi`s contract with PSG is the highest salary ever paid to a footballer. His previous contract with Barcelona was worth an estimated €71 million ($84 million) per year, which was also a record salary at the time.

What Does Messi`s Contract Mean for PSG?

Messi`s arrival at PSG has been a major boost for the team. The club has struggled in recent years to achieve its goals in both domestic and international competitions, and Messi`s presence on the team is expected to change that.

Not only is Messi one of the best footballers in the world, but he also brings with him a massive fanbase and global brand recognition. PSG is likely to see a significant increase in merchandise sales and sponsorship opportunities thanks to Messi`s signing.

In addition, the signing of Messi is a clear statement of intent from PSG`s owners. The team is determined to win the UEFA Champions League, and Messi`s arrival is a signal that the club is willing to spend big to achieve that goal.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi`s new contract with PSG is a record-breaking deal that cements his status as the world`s highest-paid footballer. His salary of €35 million per year after taxes is over 10% higher than his closest competitor, Cristiano Ronaldo.

While Messi`s earnings are impressive, they are still far below those of the world`s highest-paid athlete, boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. However, Messi`s global brand recognition and massive fanbase make him a valuable asset to PSG both on and off the field.

Overall, Messi`s new contract with PSG is a major win for the team and a clear signal that the club is committed to winning the UEFA Champions League. Fans around the world will undoubtedly be eagerly watching to see how Messi performs in the coming seasons.

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