Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered billionaire territory, becoming the first footballer ever to reach this status, according to Bloomberg. The 40-year-old Al-Nassr and Portugal star has been added to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index for the first time, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion.
How He Built His Fortune
Bloomberg’s valuation includes Ronaldo’s career earnings, investments, and endorsement deals. Over two decades, he’s earned more than $550 million in salary. His commercial deals have added hundreds of millions more, led by a long-term partnership with Nike worth nearly $18 million a year.
Record-Breaking Contracts
Ronaldo’s 2022 move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia made headlines when reports confirmed he became the highest-paid player in football history, taking home about £177 million a year. He has since extended his contract for another two years, a deal reportedly valued at over $400 million, keeping him at the club past his 42nd birthday.
How He Compares to Messi
Ronaldo’s long-time rival Lionel Messi isn’t far behind but trails in total wealth. Bloomberg estimates Messi has earned over $600 million in pre-tax salary during his career. His current deal with Inter Miami guarantees around $20 million a year, roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income for the same period. When Messi retires, he’s expected to receive a stake in Inter Miami, adding a new business chapter to his legacy.
What This Means
Ronaldo’s billionaire status highlights just how far football’s top stars have come, from athletes to global brands. His wealth isn’t just about talent on the pitch but also about decades of strategic deals, marketability, and staying power at the top of world football.
