Ronaldo becomes first footballer to join billionaire club, Bloomberg reports

Portuguese football star, Cristiano Ronaldo, has officially become the first footballer to join the billionaire club, according to financial data compiled by Bloomberg.

The Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks the wealth of the world’s richest individuals, listed the 40-year-old striker for the first time, estimating his total fortune—derived from career earnings, investments, and endorsement deals—at US$1.4 billion.

According to the report, Ronaldo earned over US$550 million in salaries between 2002 and 2023 while playing for some of Europe’s top clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

His long-term endorsement deal with Nike, valued at nearly US$18 million per year, along with partnerships with brands such as Armani and Castrol, contributed an additional US$175 million to his wealth.

Ronaldo’s 2023 move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr further boosted his fortune, fetching him around US$200 million annually in tax-free salary and bonuses, including a US$30 million signing bonus.

Though his initial contract was set to end in June 2025, he has since extended his stay with a new two-year deal worth over US$400 million, keeping him at the club until his 42nd birthday.

Meanwhile, Argentina captain Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s long-time rival, has earned over US$600 million in pre-tax salary during his career, Bloomberg noted. His current deal with Inter Miami, which includes a US$20 million annual salary, represents about 10 percent of Ronaldo’s recent income.

Upon retirement, Messi is also expected to receive an ownership stake in Inter Miami—an arrangement that could eventually bring his net worth closer to Ronaldo’s.

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