Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to achieve billionaire status, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion.
The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar’s immense wealth has been driven by both his football career and global brand power. His record-breaking contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, signed in June, is reportedly worth over $400 million, making it one of the most lucrative deals in sports history.
Between 2002 and 2023, Ronaldo earned more than $550 million in salaries alone, while his long-term Nike contract—valued at around $18 million annually—and endorsements with Armani, Castrol, and other global brands added more than $175 million to his fortune.
Ronaldo’s 2023 move from Manchester United to Al-Nassr had already made him the highest-paid footballer in the world, with an annual income exceeding £177 million ($237.5 million), in addition to bonuses and a 15% profit share in the Saudi club.
His billionaire milestone places him in an elite group of global sports icons, including Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Tiger Woods, and Roger Federer—athletes who combined sporting excellence with business acumen to achieve financial immortality.
Despite his financial and professional achievements, Ronaldo insists retirement is not on his radar. Speaking at the Portugal Football Globes gala, he said, “I still have a passion for this. My family says it’s time to quit, but I’m still producing, still helping my club and country. I’ll keep playing while I can give my best.”
Ronaldo remains focused on his legacy, aiming to cross the 1,000-goal mark before hanging up his boots—continuing to inspire millions as both a football legend and a global icon of perseverance, ambition, and success.
