Cristiano Ronaldo has made history as the first footballer to reach billionaire status, according to data from Bloomberg, a leading financial and media company.
The Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which ranks the wealthiest individuals worldwide based on their net worth, has now included the 40-year-old Portuguese forward and Al-Nassr star in its listings for the first time.
This assessment factors in Ronaldo’s total career income, investments, and endorsement deals, estimating his net worth at approximately $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion).
Between 2002 and 2023, Ronaldo reportedly earned over $550 million (£410 million) in salaries alone. His lucrative sponsorship portfolio features a notable decade-long partnership with Nike, valued at nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.
Upon his 2022 move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr in the Pro League, Ronaldo secured what is believed to be the highest salary ever paid to a footballer, with an annual wage of £177 million.
Originally set to expire in June 2025, his contract was extended by an additional two years, reportedly worth upwards of $400 million (£298 million), ensuring he remains with the club past his 42nd birthday.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi, the Argentine forward now playing for Inter Miami and a long-time rival of Ronaldo during their La Liga days, has amassed over $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary throughout his career, according to Bloomberg.
Since 2023, Messi’s guaranteed yearly earnings stand at around $20 million (£15 million), roughly one-tenth of Ronaldo’s income during the same timeframe.
Looking ahead, the 38-year-old Messi is expected to receive an ownership stake in Inter Miami upon retirement, further enhancing his financial portfolio.
