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Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to reach billionaire status.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks the world’s richest individuals, the 40-year-old Portuguese and Al-Nassr striker now has an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion). This marks the first time the index has included him in its rankings.
The valuation factors in Ronaldo’s career earnings, investments, and endorsements. Between 2002 and 2023, he reportedly earned more than $550 million (£410 million) in salary alone. His off-field income includes several major sponsorship deals, notably a decade-long partnership with Nike valued at nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.
Ronaldo’s 2022 move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr made him the highest-paid footballer in history, with an annual salary of £177 million. He has since extended his contract by two more years—reportedly worth over $400 million (£298 million)—keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.
For comparison, Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has earned more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary over his career, according to Bloomberg. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi’s guaranteed annual pay of $20 million (£15 million) amounts to roughly one-tenth of Ronaldo’s earnings in the same period.
