Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo net worth compared amid World Cup battle

Sahil KurupSat, June 27, 2026 at 4:00 PM UTC

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are both leading their teams at the World Cup -Credit:Getty

As Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo chase one final shot at World Cup glory, the two soccer icons are also competing in another arena they have dominated for years: wealth.

The longtime rivals arrived at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as two of the richest active athletes in the world, with decades of record-breaking salaries, lucrative endorsement deals and successful business ventures helping each surpass the billionaire mark, according to Forbes. While Messi continues to lead Argentina's title defense, Ronaldo is hoping to guide Portugal to the one major trophy that has eluded him throughout his career.

Off the field, however, Ronaldo, who refused to answer a Lionel Messi question after their World Cup goals reignited the GOAT debate, holds the financial edge.

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What is Lionel Messi's net worth?

Forbes estimates Messi's net worth at $1.1 billion, making the Argentina captain one of only a handful of active athletes to become a billionaire. His fortune has been built through nearly two decades at Barcelona, a spell with Paris Saint-Germain and his current contract with Inter Miami.

Messi also earns substantial income away from soccer through endorsement deals with global brands including Adidas, Apple partnerships tied to MLS, Mastercard and Michelob Ultra.

Lionel Messi is on a record-breaking run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup -Credit:Getty

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Forbes estimates he earned $140 million over the past year, split evenly between on-field and off-field income.

His business portfolio extends beyond sponsorships, with investments in hospitality, clothing and real estate, while his Inter Miami agreement also includes the option to acquire an ownership stake in the club after his playing career.

What is Cristiano Ronaldo's net worth?

Ronaldo is currently the wealthier of the two superstars, with Forbes estimating his net worth at $1.2 billion. He became the first active soccer player to surpass $2 billion in career earnings before taxes and agent fees while continuing to play professionally.

Much of Ronaldo's recent earnings have come from his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, reportedly worth more than $200 million annually when salary, bonuses and commercial agreements are included.

Forbes estimates the Portugal captain earned$300 million over the past 12 months, making him the world's highest-paid athlete for the fourth consecutive year.

Ronaldo netted twice against Uzbekistan -Credit:Getty

Away from soccer, Ronaldo has built one of the largest personal brands in sports through sponsorships with Nike and other multinational companies, while also expanding into hotels, fitness centers, fashion, fragrances and media ventures.

His enormous social media following, the largest of any athlete globally, has further strengthened his commercial value.

As the World Cup enters its knockout stages, both legends still have the chance to add another chapter to their historic rivalry. Regardless of who lifts the trophy, each has already secured a place among the wealthiest and most influential athletes in sports history.

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Source: “AOL Money”