Cristiano Ronaldo becomes First Footballer to Attain Billionaire Status

By Michael Ehindero

Cristiano Ronaldo has just smashed yet another record and this one isn’t about goals. The Portuguese legend has officially joined the Billionaire Club, becoming the first footballer in history to do so, according to Bloomberg.

Ronaldo’s fortune now a jaw-dropping $1.4 billion has been supercharged by mega-money endorsements, savvy investments, and his record-shattering salary at Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr. His latest deal alone? A staggering $400 million, all tax-free.


The 40-year old superstar, who conquered Europe with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, has now conquered the financial world too.

The Bloomberg Billionaires Index lists Ronaldo’s wealth for the first time, counting $550 million in career salaries, plus a treasure chest of sponsorships including his decade long partnership with Nike, worth around $18 million a year.

When he joined Al-Nassr in 2022, Ronaldo became the highest-paid player in football history, pocketing a cool £177 million a year. Now, with his new two-year extension, the goal machine will keep cashing in well past his 42nd birthday.

Meanwhile, his eternal rival Lionel Messi trails behind, with only $600 million in career earnings.

Ronaldo’s latest victory proves one thing, at 40, the CR7 empire is still growing, and the king of the pitch has become the king of cash.

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