Son Heung-Min breaks Lionel Messi, David Beckham record days after joining LAFC

Son Heung-Min breaks Lionel Messi, David Beckham record days after joining LAFC

Son Heung-Min’s LAFC jersey tops global sales charts, beating Messi, LeBron, Curry

Son Heung-Min’s arrival at LAFC instantly made his jersey the world’s best-seller.

What LAFC co-president said

According to LAFC co-president and general manager John Thorrington, sales of Son’s number have eclipsed those of global icons including Lionel Messi, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry.

“This is now the second week where we’re not just talking about the highest-selling football jersey in the MLS,” Thorrington told talkSPORT.

He added, “It is the highest-selling jersey of any sport in the world right now. From the day he signed until now, Son has sold more jerseys than any athlete anywhere.”

This surge, based on real-time post-announcement sales data, highlights the South Korean superstar’s appeal beyond football and paves the way for cross-sport recognition.

Sports marketing analysts note that his signing follows a trend of MLS teams leveraging mainstream U.S. sports platforms to maximize international exposure.

“What LAFC is doing with Son is more than just a football transfer, it’s a cultural crossover. You’re seeing an athlete who is a national hero in Korea now become a household name in Los Angeles,” said sports marketing consultant Rafael Vega.

Son’s popularity is spilling over into other American sports. The Los Angeles Dodgers confirmed that the forward will throw the ceremonial first pitch at Dodger Stadium on August 27, when the team face the San Diego Padres.

To further his introduction to Los Angeles, LAFC has encouraged supporters to attend the MLB fixture, presenting it as a key part of Son’s welcome to the city’s sports scene.

Son made his MLS debut against the Chicago Fire last weekend and is expected to feature again when LAFC meets the New England Revolution on Saturday.