Lionel Messi's $20.45 Million Salary Shakes MLS

Lionel Messi, the renowned football superstar, has made headlines once again with his staggering annual salary of $20.45 million at Inter Miami, marking a new milestone in Major League Soccer. This revelation, unveiled by the MLS Players Association, showcases Messi's financial impact on the league.

Breaking down Messi's compensation, his base salary amounts to $12 million, supplemented by various bonuses, culminating in a total of $20,446,667. It's important to note that this figure excludes the substantial earnings he garners from lucrative commercial partnerships and sponsorships.

Following his illustrious tenure at Barcelona, where he had the potential to earn 138 million euros per season, Messi made a move to Paris Saint-Germain before ultimately joining Inter Miami in 2021. His contract with Miami is set to run until the conclusion of the 2025 season.

Within the MLS landscape, other notable earners include Lorenzo Insigne of Toronto, securing the second spot with a guaranteed income of $15.4 million, and Sergio Busquets at $8.8 million. Inter Miami leads the pack with a wage bill of $41.68 million, closely trailed by Toronto and Columbus Crew.

Despite Messi's substantial earnings, the average MLS salary in 2024 stands at $594,390, reflecting a notable 12.1% increase from the previous year. The introduction of the 'Designated Player' rule, initially tailored for David Beckham in 2007, has empowered clubs like Miami to attract top-tier talent through competitive salaries.

While Messi's income in MLS is undeniably impressive, it pales in comparison to the earnings of top athletes in other major US sports. For instance, NFL quarterback Joe Burrow recently inked a groundbreaking deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, while NBA luminary Stephen Curry commands a substantial salary with the Golden State Warriors.

Lionel Messi's arrival in Major League Soccer has not only elevated the league's financial landscape but also underscored the growing allure of American sports for global icons. As fans eagerly anticipate Messi's on-field prowess and impact off the pitch, his presence in MLS continues to reshape the narrative of soccer in the United States.