Cristiano Ronaldo has made history once again — this time off the pitch. The 40-year-old Portuguese star has officially become the first footballer to reach billionaire status, according to financial data firm Bloomberg.
Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index, which tracks the world’s wealthiest people, estimates Ronaldo’s net worth at around $1.4 billion (£1.045 billion), factoring in his career earnings, sponsorship deals, and investments.
Throughout his remarkable career, Ronaldo has reportedly earned over $550 million (£410 million) in salaries between 2002 and 2023. His wealth also stems from major endorsement deals, including a long-standing partnership with Nike, which pays him nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.
His move to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League in 2022 significantly boosted his fortune. There, he became the highest-paid footballer in history, with an annual salary of £177 million, later extending his contract for two more years in a deal worth over $400 million (£298 million) — keeping him at the club past his 42nd birthday.
Ronaldo’s long-time rival, Lionel Messi, trails behind with Bloomberg estimating his fortune at over $600 million (£447 million) in career earnings. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi reportedly earns about $20 million (£15 million) per year — roughly one-tenth of Ronaldo’s annual income.
Here’s Bloomberg’s updated list of the world’s richest footballers:
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Cristiano Ronaldo – £1.045bn
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Lionel Messi – £620m
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Neymar – £280m
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Kylian Mbappé – £186m
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Karim Benzema – £150m
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Paul Pogba – £93m
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Son Heung-min – £75m
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Antoine Griezmann – £67m
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Mohamed Salah – £66m
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Robert Lewandowski – £63m
Ronaldo’s journey from humble beginnings to billionaire status stands as a symbol of determination, discipline, and the global influence he has built both on and off the field.
