Lionel Messi’s World Cup Jerseys Sold at $7.8 Million in Record-Breaking Auction
Lionel Messi Jersey Price: In a riveting auction spectacle, football great Lionel Messi’s World Cup jerseys from Argentina’s triumphant 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign sold in auction, collectively at an astounding $7.8 million. The bidding war, hosted by Sotheby’s in New York, saw these iconic shirts etch their place in sports memorabilia history.
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Lionel Messi Jersey Price: Sold in Auction
The jerseys, once adorned by Lionel Messi during pivotal moments of Argentina’s triumphant 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, took center stage at the prestigious auction held by Sotheby’s in New York. The six shirts, worn by Messi during the first halves of Argentina’s crucial matches, including the final showdown against France, captivated bidders worldwide. Notably, the auction included jerseys from the final, semi-final, quarter-final, last-16 tie, and two group-stage encounters. However, one of the first-half jerseys from the group stage did not make it to the auction; Australia international Cammy Devlin received that specific jersey after swapping shirts with the former Barcelona forward during the tournament.
Record-Breaking Feat: Setting the Auction Arena Alight
The staggering final price tag of $7.8 million for Lionel Messi’s jerseys sold in auction set a new benchmark in becoming the highest-selling sports memorabilia of the year. Although on the all-time list, falling short of Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which fetched a record $10.1 million, and Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal jersey, sold for $9.28 million in 2022. Messi’s shirts still carved their place as one of the most valuable sets in sports auction history.
“These historic shirts are not only a tangible reminder of one of the most important moments in the history of sports, but are principally connected to the pinnacle moment in the career of the most decorated football player in history,” Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of modern collectibles, said in a statement.
Messi’s World Cup Heroics
In a display transcending age barriers, the 35-year-old maestro Lionel Messi etched an unforgettable saga in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His performances were nothing short of extraordinary, marked by pivotal moments that defined Argentina’s triumph. Among these, his two crucial goals in the final against France stood as a testament to his unmatched brilliance, showcasing his ability to shine on the grandest stage.
However, it was Messi’s breathtaking moments throughout the tournament that fuelled the allure of his game-worn jerseys. The unforgettable goal against Mexico that acted as a catalyst for Argentina’s momentum shift, his mesmerizing solo run besting tournament’s best defenders like Josko Gvardiol, and the immaculate pass against the Netherlands, nutmegging Nathan Ake and elegantly finding Molina for a goal—each instance encapsulated Messi’s mastery and contributed to the allure of Lionel Messi’s jerseys sold in the auction.
Funds with a Noble Purpose
Beyond the staggering price tags, a portion of the proceeds from this historic auction will be dedicated to the UNICAS Project. Led by Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children’s Hospital with support from the Leo Messi Foundation, this initiative aims to assist children battling rare diseases, channeling the spirit of sportsmanship and compassion for a noble cause.
Lionel Messi’s Monumental Worth
Beyond the auction’s astounding figures, Lionel Messi’s financial prowess stands as a testament to his unparalleled stature in the world of sports. With a net worth estimated at $130 million, Messi ranks as the world’s second-highest-paid athlete. His lucrative endeavors include a lifelong partnership with Adidas and his personalized clothing line. Notably, within the MLS, Messi reigns as the highest-paid player, boasting an annual salary of $20.4 million. This financial stature further cements his legacy beyond the realms of football, marking him as an icon of commercial success and sporting excellence.
Messi’s Legend Lives On
As the gavel fell on this monumental occasion, the Argentine’s legacy received a resounding tribute, echoing far beyond the realms of football. Lionel Messi’s jerseys sold in auction, symbolic of his unparalleled prowess and historic World Cup feat, found their way into the hearts of collectors while making a tangible difference in supporting children’s health causes.
