Khaberni - Despite the global aura that surrounds the legendary Argentine soccer player Lionel Messi himself, the latest data released from the website (Spotrac) reveals a shocking fact: Messi earns a salary much less than stars of other sports.
Basketball Domination: Jason Tatum Stands Out
The NBA confirms that it is the primary source of money and stars. Jason Tatum tops the list with an amazing annual salary of 62.8 million dollars, followed by giants Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis with 58.5 million dollars. These figures reflect the great bargaining power of players in a league where the salary cap is growing wildly.
American Football League (NFL): The Quarterback is King
In the most profitable sport in the United States, wealth is concentrated in the hands of "Quarterbacks." Dak Prescott leads the list with an annual salary of 60 million dollars, while stars such as Josh Allen and Joe Burrow follow with salaries exceeding 55 million dollars. Here, athletic success is measured by the ability to lead the team commercially and technically.
Baseball (MLB): Ohtani Breaks Records
The baseball league emerged as a third economic power, thanks to long-term contracts. Star Shohei Ohtani has caused an economic upheaval with an annual salary of 70 million dollars, representing the highest figure that reflects his cross-continental commercial value, even surpassing basketball stars.
Lionel Messi... Why Does His Salary Seem "Modest"?
The big surprise lies in the American Soccer League (MLS). Although Lionel Messi is the most famous athlete in the world, his salary of 20.4 million dollars places him at the bottom of the economic pyramid compared to stars of other American sports.
A quick comparison shows that Messi's salary is roughly a third of what Jason Tatum earns in basketball or Dak Prescott in American football.
Ranking of the Highest Annual Salaries in Prominent American Sports:
Baseball (Highest Individual Contract): Shohei Ohtani (70 million dollars).
Basketball (NBA): Jason Tatum (62.8 million dollars).
American Football (NFL): Dak Prescott (60 million dollars).
Soccer (MLS): Lionel Messi (20.4 million dollars).
Hockey (NHL): Leon Draisaitl (14 million dollars).
