Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first footballer to reach billionaire status: report

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first footballer in history to reach billionaire status, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates the Portuguese star’s net worth at around $1.4 billion.

The 40-year-old striker’s financial milestone follows his new contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, signed in June, reportedly valued at more than $400 million.

Bloomberg reported that Ronaldo earned over $550 million in salaries between 2002 and 2023, in addition to a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18 million annually, and endorsement agreements with Armani, Castrol, and other global brands that contributed more than $175 million to his fortune.

Ronaldo’s transfer from Manchester United to Al-Nassr in 2023 made him the highest-paid footballer in history, with an annual income of £177 million ($237 million), alongside bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi club.

His achievement places him among a select group of billionaire athletes, including basketball legends Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods, and tennis star Roger Federer.