Son Heung-min has quickly outpaced Lionel Messi’s record for jersey sales in Major League Soccer after joining LAFC. Within his first few weeks in the league, the South Korean striker surpassed Messi’s milestone set with Inter Miami, establishing a new benchmark for MLS apparel sales.
Jersey Sales Numbers and Projections for Son Heung-min
John Tarrington, vice president of LAFC, noted the unprecedented demand for Son’s jersey, stating,
“This is now the second week in a row that we’re not just talking about the best-selling soccer jersey in MLS. It’s the best-selling jersey of any sport in the world right now.”
While Messi had sold 500,000 jerseys during his first month, Son is projected to sell nearly 1.5 million jerseys within the same timeframe, more than doubling that record.
Impact of Son Heung-min’s Arrival on Los Angeles
Son Heung-min’s presence in Los Angeles has influenced more than just jersey sales. The city hosts the largest Korean community outside South Korea, with around 300,000 Korean residents whose enthusiasm for Son has fueled ticket demand significantly. According to The Korea Times, the cost of attending LAFC matches has surged from $300 to $1,500 since Son’s signing, reflecting his strong draw among local fans.
Significance of Son Heung-min’s Record and What Lies Ahead
Son’s ability to break Messi’s record underscores his global appeal and the growing influence of MLS as a destination for top international talent. His success is expected to boost not only LAFC’s visibility but also the league’s overall profile, potentially attracting more star players and expanding the fan base. Moving forward, the continued excitement around Son Heung-min could drive further commercial growth and competitive intensity in U.S. soccer.