Messi vs Ronaldo: Who Has Been More Valuable Across Their Legendary Careers?

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been football’s biggest superstars for nearly two decades. With 13 Ballon d’Or titles between them — Messi claiming eight and Ronaldo five — the two players have redefined what it means to be at the top of the sport. Their records, legacy, and influence on the game have sparked endless debates among fans and pundits alike.

The Rise of the Titans

Cristiano Ronaldo’s rise came slightly earlier than Lionel Messi’s, as Ronaldo is two years older. By 2006, both players had a market value of around €20 million. Ronaldo surged ahead in 2008, following his first Ballon d’Or win, pushing his valuation to €60 million. Messi, however, was quick to catch up and surpassed Ronaldo by 2011.

From 2012 to 2018, Messi’s market value remained steady at €120 million, demonstrating his consistency as one of the world’s best players. During the same period, Ronaldo experienced fluctuations, peaking at €120 million in 2018 during his final season at Real Madrid.

Market Value Comparison

Both Messi and Ronaldo saw their market values decline as they aged. However, Messi maintained a higher valuation than Ronaldo for the past ten years. According to Transfermarkt, Messi’s current value in 2024 is €20 million ($21m/£16m), while Ronaldo’s is €12 million ($12.6m/£10m).

While their current valuations reflect their advanced ages — Messi at 37 and Ronaldo at 39 — they remain influential figures in global football. Messi is now dazzling fans in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami, while Ronaldo continues to score goals for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

Key Milestones

• 2006: Both Messi and Ronaldo had a valuation of around €20 million.
• 2008: Ronaldo surged to €60 million after winning his first Ballon d’Or.
• 2011: Messi overtook Ronaldo in market value and maintained the lead for a decade.
• 2018: Both players peaked at €120 million, but Messi reached his record-high valuation of €180 million.
• 2024: Messi’s market value is €20 million, while Ronaldo’s is €12 million.

Who Had the Higher Peak Value?

Messi holds the record for the highest peak market value at €180 million in 2018. Ronaldo’s highest valuation was €120 million, achieved during his final season with Real Madrid. The difference highlights Messi’s superior market dominance during their prime years.

The Final Chapter

As of 2024, the careers of Messi and Ronaldo are approaching their final chapters. Messi continues to showcase his playmaking brilliance at Inter Miami, while Ronaldo remains a prolific goal-scorer for Al-Nassr. Their current market values reflect their ages, but their legacy goes far beyond numbers.

The debate of “Messi vs Ronaldo” will never truly be settled. While Messi has held a higher market value for much of their careers, Ronaldo’s relentless drive, work ethic, and goal-scoring feats are legendary. Messi, on the other hand, is often seen as a natural genius with unparalleled vision and creativity on the pitch.

My Take

When it comes to market value, Lionel Messi edges out Cristiano Ronaldo. His peak valuation of €180 million and his ability to sustain a high value for a longer period give him the edge. However, market value is just one aspect of their greatness. Ronaldo’s influence, charisma, and leadership have left a lasting impact on every club he’s played for.

If I had to choose, I would lean slightly towards Messi as the more “valuable” player, especially in terms of market consistency and overall influence on the pitch. However, Ronaldo’s career trajectory — from Sporting CP to Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr — reflects a journey of reinvention and sustained greatness.

At the end of the day, both players have shaped modern football in ways that no one else has. The “Messi vs Ronaldo” debate will continue long after they retire, and perhaps that’s what makes their rivalry so iconic.

Who do you think is more valuable? Messi or Ronaldo? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.