Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first billionaire footballer with $1.4bn net worth

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has become football’s first billionaire player, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion, according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

The index, which tracks the world’s wealthiest individuals, included the 40-year-old Al Nassr and Portugal captain for the first time, confirming his rise as one of the richest athletes in history.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking wealth is driven by his massive earnings in the Saudi Pro League, where he joined Al Nassr in January 2023 on a deal worth around $200 million per year. In June 2025, he extended his contract for two more years, a deal reportedly valued at over $400 million tax-free, pushing his fortune into billionaire status.

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Beyond his football salary, Ronaldo has built a global financial empire through endorsements, real estate, and business ventures. His long-term partnership with Nike, worth nearly $18 million annually, along with deals with Armani and Castrol, added more than $175 million to his earnings, according to Bloomberg.

Throughout his career, Ronaldo has earned over $550 million in salaries from clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, along with his current time in Saudi Arabia.. He has also invested heavily in luxury hotels, fitness centres, and lifestyle brands across Europe.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner now joins sporting icons Michael Jordan and Roger Federer among the elite group of athlete billionaires, underscoring his unmatched global appeal and financial acumen.

Meanwhile, long-time rival Lionel Messi, now with Inter Miami, has earned over $600 million in pre-tax salary during his career and is expected to receive an ownership stake in the MLS club upon retirement.