Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi Net Worth: Who’s Richer?
Two of the greatest footballers in the world, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, are gearing up for what may be their last World Cup appearance in 2026. Both players, who are also among the richest athletes of all time, are set to make their record-breaking sixth appearance in the tournament, which kicks off in Mexico City.
Soccer fans are eagerly anticipating a potential quarterfinal showdown between Messi and Ronaldo in Kansas City on July 11, provided that Argentina and Portugal perform well in the group stages and early knockout rounds.
Messi, who secured his first World Cup victory in 2022, has solidified his position in the debate for the title of the greatest footballer of all time. However, when it comes to career earnings, net worth, and current contracts, Ronaldo seems to have the upper hand.
Lionel Messi, Argentina
- Net worth: $1 billion
- Career earnings: $1.62 billion
- Annual earnings, 2026: $140 million total
Messi recently joined the billionaires club, thanks to his lucrative stints at Paris Saint-Germain and his latest contract with Inter Miami. His move to the U.S. came with revenue-sharing agreements with Apple and Adidas. Messi also has various sponsorships and partnerships with brands like Michelob Ultra, Mastercard, Lay’s, and Hard Rock.
The 38-year-old forward earned a significant portion of his wealth during his time at FC Barcelona, where he scored 474 goals. Messi also owns properties in South Florida, Barcelona, and Rosario, Argentina, and has investments in real estate and brand partnerships across the globe.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal
- Net worth: $1.2 billion
- Career earnings: $2.09 billion
- Annual earnings: $300 million total
Ronaldo, who now plays for Al-Nassr FC in the Saudi Pro League, is considered the highest-earning athlete in the world, with annual on-field earnings of $235 million in 2026. Despite holding numerous accolades, including scoring in the past five World Cup tournaments, Ronaldo has yet to secure a World Cup victory.
Portugal, led by Ronaldo, is expected to be a strong contender in the 2026 tournament, with a significant portion of sports betting volume favoring their success. Ronaldo’s real estate portfolio includes properties in Portugal, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, and he travels in a custom Bombardier Global Express XRS plane.
Both Messi and Ronaldo have lucrative sponsorship deals, with Messi partnering with Adidas and Ronaldo having a lifetime deal with Nike worth $1 billion. Ronaldo also has his own clothing line, CR7, and a chain of Pestana CR7 Hotels in various cities.
As the two footballing legends prepare for what could be their final World Cup appearance, fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if Messi or Ronaldo can add another illustrious achievement to their already impressive careers.
