Cristiano Ronaldo becomes football’s first billionaire player, joins elite list of global sports icons

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again made history—this time off the pitch. The Portuguese football icon and current Al-Nassr forward has officially become football’s first billionaire player, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index, joining the exclusive ranks of Michael Jordan and Roger Federer as one of the few athletes to reach billionaire status.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Ronaldo’s two-decade career has been defined by record-breaking goal-scoring, incredible longevity, and a long list of accolades, including five Ballon d’Or titles and numerous domestic and international trophies.

At 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to defy age and expectations—not only with his performances on the field but also with his remarkable financial success.

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Ronaldo, already the highest-paid footballer in the world, saw his net worth soar after signing a blockbuster two-year deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, reportedly worth over $400 million in tax-free earnings. This deal significantly boosted his estimated net worth to $1.4 billion, which includes career earnings, brand endorsements, business ventures, and real estate holdings.

Between 2022 and 2023, Ronaldo reportedly earned over $550 million in salary alone. Off the field, he has long-standing endorsement deals with top global brands, including:

• Nike – worth nearly $18 million annually through a decade-long partnership 
• Armani, Castrol, and others – adding another $175 million to his total income 

Additionally, Ronaldo has built a vast real estate portfolio and invested in numerous businesses across Portugal, Spain, and beyond, further diversifying his income streams.

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first billionaire football player, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, thanks to a huge Saudi deal in the twilight of his career.

Here’s how his wealth stacks up: https://t.co/eW1MTtJBPp

📷: Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images pic.twitter.com/Ve3abAXz0e

— Bloomberg (@business) October 8, 2025

Despite reaching this monumental financial achievement, retirement isn’t on Ronaldo’s mind just yet.

“People, especially my family, say: ‘It’s time for you to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?’ But I don’t think so,” Ronaldo said. “I’m still producing good things. I’m helping my club and my national team, and why not keep going? I know I don’t have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest.”

Ronaldo’s current contract will keep him at Al-Nassr until the summer of 2026. He remains a key figure for both his club and the Portuguese national team, demonstrating that his drive and passion remain as strong as ever.

While Lionel Messi—Ronaldo’s long-time rival—has also amassed an impressive fortune, his total earnings pale in comparison during the same period. Since 2023, Messi has earned a guaranteed annual salary of approximately $20 million, part of a career total of over $600 million in pre-tax salary. That figure amounts to just 10% of Ronaldo’s income over the same timeframe.

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