Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become football’s first billionaire player, according to financial information and media firm Bloomberg.
The Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks the world’s richest individuals based on their net worth, has included the 40-year-old Portugal and Al-Nassr striker for the first time.
Ronaldo’s net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion), taking into account his career earnings, investments, and endorsement deals. Between 2002 and 2023, he reportedly earned more than $550 million (£410 million) in salary alone. His lucrative sponsorships include a decade-long partnership with Nike worth nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.
When Ronaldo joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in 2022, he became the highest-paid player in football history, earning around £177 million per year. His contract, initially set to end in June 2025, was recently extended by two years — a deal reportedly valued at over $400 million (£298 million) — keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.
Meanwhile, Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s long-time rival, has earned more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary over his career, according to Bloomberg. Since 2023, Messi has received a guaranteed $20 million (£15 million) in annual pay — roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income over the same period.
At 38, Messi is also set to receive a stake in Inter Miami upon retirement, further adding to his already impressive portfolio.