At 39, Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass in the 2026 World Cup, netting all three goals in Argentina’s 3‑0 victory over Algeria. The performance not only secured the win but also tied the all‑time men’s World Cup scoring record, a milestone that underscored the Argentine’s enduring brilliance. After the match, Messi confirmed that the tournament would be his final appearance on the world stage.
Messi’s MLS Milestones
Messi’s farewell was preceded by a storied club chapter in Major League Soccer. Since joining Inter Miami FC in 2023, he has rewritten the league’s record books, signing a two‑and‑a‑half‑year contract that placed him among the highest‑earning players in MLS history. His influence culminated in a series of accolades: a record five‑assist game, a 20‑goal, 16‑assist season, multiple MVP awards, and a historic 40‑goal sprint that made him the fastest player in league history to reach that mark.
Beyond the pitch, Messi’s footprint in South Florida extends to real estate. He owns a $10.75 million waterfront mansion in Fort Lauderdale and maintains residences in luxury towers such as the Porsche Design Tower, the Regalia Building, and the Trump Royale in Sunny Isles Beach. These properties reflect a broader pattern of high‑profile athletes investing in the region’s premium market.
Messi’s global stature is amplified by his 507 million Instagram followers and a net worth estimated at roughly a billion dollars, placing him alongside other sporting legends like Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Serena Williams. His impact reverberates across disciplines, from the soccer pitches of Argentina to the golf courses frequented by Jack Nicklaus and the tennis courts of Serena Williams.