Cristiano Ronaldo has added another landmark to a glittering football career, becoming the first player to reach billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
The 40-year-old Portuguese forward’s wealth now stands at $1.4 billion, propelled by a combination of lucrative contracts, endorsements, and investments.
Al-Nassr deal drives earnings
Ronaldo’s recent contract extension with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, reportedly worth over $400 million, has been a decisive factor in his ascent into the billionaire ranks.
The deal includes tax-free salary, performance bonuses, a $30 million signing bonus, equity in the club, and private jet access.
Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027 💛🤩
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Speaking at the time of the transfer, Ronaldo described the move as a pursuit of a “new challenge” after having “won everything” in Europe.
Bloomberg’s valuation considers not only his current contract but also career earnings, investment returns, and endorsement income, adjusted for taxes and market performance.
As per Bloomberg’s estimates, Ronaldo earned over $550 million in salary between 2002 and 2023, alongside a decade-long Nike contract reportedly worth nearly $18 million per year.
Additional endorsement deals with brands such as Armani and Castrol contributed over $175 million to his wealth.
Who is behind Ronaldo?
Ronaldo’s long-time rival, Lionel Messi, has earned over $600 million in pre-tax salary over his career, including $20 million in guaranteed annual pay since joining Inter Miami in 2023.
Messi also has a revenue-sharing arrangement with Apple. While Messi’s earnings remain substantial, his guaranteed pay over the last two seasons represents roughly a tenth of Ronaldo’s income during the same period.
Both players, however, have benefited from unprecedented pay inflation in football, far exceeding the lifetime earnings of previous stars such as David Beckham, who retired in 2013 with around $100 million in earnings.
Endorsements and career strategy
Beyond salary, Ronaldo has capitalized on his global profile with high-value endorsements throughout his career, securing deals with major brands such as Nike and Armani.
These partnerships, combined with strategic investments, have reinforced his financial position, cementing him as a trailblazer in the intersection of sports and business.
Ronaldo’s milestone highlights the evolving economics of elite football, where top-tier players now command salaries and commercial deals that were once unimaginable.
His journey from record transfers in Europe to a record-setting Saudi contract exemplifies how athletes increasingly leverage both on-field success and brand value to build generational wealth.
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