In a new comparison highlighting their impact on modern football, it’s clear why Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are considered the greatest. Ronaldo is a key ambassador for Nike worldwide, and the earnings from his Nike contract rival those of Messi’s Adidas deal.
Just two years after Messi made his debut for FC Barcelona on October 16, 2004, Adidas made a significant commitment by sponsoring him. This partnership was solidified in 2017 with a historic renewal.
Cristiano Ronaldo signed with Nike in 2003, and his influence was so substantial that in 2016, he renewed his contract, earning him the title of Nike’s new Michael Jordan. Experts project this new deal could bring Ronaldo up to $1 billion over its duration.
In 2017, Messi renewed his lifetime contract with Adidas. According to Brazil’s ‘Columna Financiera,’ the Inter Miami star receives €20 million annually from the German brand.
Cristiano Ronaldo unveils the new Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly II boots he will wear for the rest of the domestic season, and at the World Cup, on February 24, 2010. Christopher Lee/Getty Images
Much like Michael Jordan’s ‘Air Jordan’ line, Ronaldo has his own ‘CR7’ brand with Nike. “I have a great relationship with this brand and many friends in this company. We work like a family. This is my brand,” Ronaldo said before revealing that his annual earnings from Nike are on par with Messi’s from Adidas.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his Nike contract
While Messi’s €20 million per year from Adidas is impressive, Ronaldo’s annual earnings from Nike are estimated to exceed €22 million, according to AS and El Tiempo Latino. Clearly, these two athletes have the greatest impact in modern football history.
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After losing the UEFA Euro 2024 final to Spain, Trent Alexander–Arnold, in an interview with ‘The Mirror,’ named Messi the greatest player in football history. “Lionel Messi is the best to ever play this game. Playing against him is unlike anything I’ve experienced with any other player. You’re always on high alert when the ball is near him. It’s rare for a player to instill that feeling in others, which is why I have to say it’s him,” the Liverpool star stated.
