Cristiano Ronaldo has made history once again, becoming the first-ever football player to reach billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The 40-year-old Portuguese striker, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has officially joined the world’s richest list with a stunning net worth of 1.4 billion dollars.
The Bloomberg report measures Ronaldo’s total wealth, including his career earnings, business investments, and brand endorsements. Between 2002 and 2023, he reportedly earned more than 550 million dollars in salaries. His decade-long partnership with Nike, which earns him around 18 million dollars each year, is one of the key contributors to his massive fortune.
Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in 2022 marked another milestone in his career. The Saudi club offered him a record-breaking contract worth 177 million pounds a year, making him the highest-paid player in football history. Recently, he extended his stay with a new two-year deal valued at over 400 million dollars, securing his future at the club well past his 42nd birthday.
When it comes to football earnings, Ronaldo’s long-time rival Lionel Messi is not far behind. Bloomberg reports that the Argentine and Inter Miami star has earned over 600 million dollars in pre-tax salary during his career. Since 2023, Messi has been earning around 20 million dollars annually, which is roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income over the same period.
In addition, Messi is set to receive a future ownership stake in Inter Miami once he retires, ensuring his wealth continues to grow even after his playing days end.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s rise to billionaire status is more than a sports headline — it’s proof of his unmatched brand power, business acumen, and global influence that extends far beyond the football field.
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