Lionel Messi – $130M

Coming right in second place is the world-famous football legend Lionel Messi, with annual earnings of $130 million. In 2021, he broke the hearts of “Barcelona FC” fans by leaving after 17 years and signed with “Paris Saint-Germain.” Nevertheless, he will always be an Argentinian at heart and continues to play (and captain) for the national team.

Of course, a sports star like Messi has multiple sources of income. In addition to his pay from “Paris Saint-Germain,” Messi generates money from his lifestyle brand “The Messi Store.” Let’s not forget endorsements. Did you know that Messi has a lifelong endorsement contract with “Adidas” that brings in $25 million every year?