Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to reach billionaire status, according to a new valuation by Bloomberg.
Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index, which tracks the world’s wealthiest individuals, listed the 40-year-old Al-Nassr striker with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion). The valuation includes his career earnings, sponsorship deals, and investments.
Ronaldo reportedly earned more than $550 million (£410 million) in salaries from 2002 to 2023 and continues to secure lucrative endorsement deals. Among them is a decade-long partnership with Nike, valued at nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.
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The five-time Ballon d’Or winner became the world’s highest-paid footballer in 2022 after joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, signing an initial deal worth £177 million per year. He later extended his contract through 2027, in a package reportedly exceeding $400 million (£298 million).
Bloomberg noted that Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s long-time rival, has earned more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary throughout his career. However, his annual income since joining Inter Miami in 2023—around $20 million (£15 million)—is just about 10% of Ronaldo’s current earnings.
Ronaldo’s rise to billionaire status cements his place not only as one of football’s greatest athletes but also as one of the most successful sports entrepreneurs in history.
