Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi earned his first million primarily through his early professional contract with FC Barcelona, which he signed after moving from Argentina at the age of 13. His initial salary at Barcelona was approximately $130,000 per year, which was a significant amount for a young player and helped support his family during his formative years in Spain.

Early Career and Contract Details

• First Contract: Messi's first professional contract with Barcelona included a crucial provision that the club would cover his medical expenses related to a growth hormone deficiency he suffered from as a child. This financial support alleviated some of the burdens on his family.

• Progression: After joining Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, Messi quickly progressed through the ranks and made his first-team debut in 2004. His performance on the pitch led to successive contract renewals, each significantly increasing his salary as he became one of the team's star players.

Financial Growth

• By the time Messi was earning millions, he had established himself as a key player for Barcelona, contributing to multiple championships and becoming the club's all-time leading scorer. This success translated into lucrative contracts; for instance, by 2017, Messi secured a deal that reportedly paid him over €70 million annually.

• Throughout his career, Messi has also benefited from numerous endorsement deals with major brands like Adidas, which has provided him with substantial off-field income. His lifetime deal with Adidas alone is estimated to be worth $25 million per year.

Conclusion

Messi's journey from earning a modest salary at Barcelona to becoming one of the highest-paid athletes globally illustrates how talent combined with strategic financial decisions can lead to immense wealth. His early contracts laid the foundation for a career that has since seen him earn over $1.3 billion throughout his lifetime from both playing and endorsements.