Son Heung-min Shatters Lionel Messi's Record with Blockbuster MLS Deal

Despite having just 30 minutes of Major League Soccer action under his belt, Son Heung-min has already become one of the most beloved athletes in American professional sports.

LAFC President John Thorrington revealed that the South Korean forward's new No. 7 jersey has become the world's best-selling kit, with sales figures eclipsing those of Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Al-Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo, NBA superstar LeBron James, and other global icons.

"For the second consecutive week, we're not merely discussing the top-selling soccer jersey in MLS," Thorrington explained to talkSPORT. "This is currently the best-selling athletic jersey across all sports globally."

"From the moment he signed with LAFC until now, his jersey sales have exceeded those of any other athlete worldwide."

Son officially joined the Black and Gold on Aug. 6 following the club's MLS-record $26.5 million transfer investment. He made his first appearance against Chicago Fire FC in a 2–2 tie, earning a late penalty that Denis Bouanga successfully converted.

His inaugural home appearance, however, is scheduled for no earlier than Aug. 31 when LAFC hosts San Diego FC at BMO Stadium.

The ex-Tottenham Hotspur forward's new No. 7 jersey is priced at $194.99 through the MLS Store and LAFC retail outlets, though supporters have found inventive ways to customize their shirts with the 33-year-old's name.

Beyond the jersey sales surge, ticket demand has skyrocketed, with the lowest-priced ticket for his potential home debut currently listed at $220 on resale platforms.

Nevertheless, the primary focus remains on field performance, with expectations that Son can guide LAFC to a second MLS Cup championship, following the successful contributions of Gareth Bale and Carlos Vela during the club's 2022 MLS Cup triumph.

"The success of this acquisition won't be judged by commercial metrics; it will be evaluated through championships and performance on the field," Thorrington emphasized. "That's what truly excites us. There are two aspects to consider."

Son's upcoming fixture with LAFC is against the New England Revolution in Foxborough, MA on Aug. 16.

LAFC's Next Five Games