Cristiano Ronaldo Officially Becomes Football’s First Billionaire

Cristiano Ronaldo has added another unprecedented title to his legendary career — becoming the first footballer in history to join the billionaire club.

According to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the Portuguese superstar’s net worth has now surpassed $1.4 billion, solidifying his place among the world’s wealthiest athletes.

The milestone follows a career spanning over two decades, during which Ronaldo earned more than $550 million in salary between 2002 and 2023, topped by a record-breaking deal with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr in 2023 reportedly worth over $400 million.

His commercial empire extends far beyond football, powered by a long-term Nike contract valued at nearly $18 million per year, major endorsements with Armani and Castrol, and investments through his CR7 brand in hotels, fashion, and fitness.

At 40, Ronaldo’s financial rise places him in the same elite tier as sporting legends Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, and LeBron James — all of whom built multi-billion-dollar fortunes by combining athletic excellence with business acumen.