Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to reach the billion-dollar mark, according to a recent report by Bloomberg. The media and financial information company included him in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which lists the world’s wealthiest individuals by net worth.
Bloomberg’s data shows that the 40-year-old Portugal and Al-Nassr star now has a fortune of $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion).
This valuation considers his endorsements, investments, and total career earnings.
Ronaldo’s income comes from various sources. His long-term partnership with Nike reportedly earns him $18 million (£13.4 million) annually under a ten-year deal. Between 2002 and 2023, he is believed to have made over $550 million (£410 million) from sponsorships and contracts alone.
In 2022, he joined Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, signing a record-breaking deal worth £177 million per year. The agreement made him the highest-paid player in football history.
Later, he extended his contract for two more years, reportedly worth over $400 million (£298 million), keeping him with the club beyond his 42nd birthday. His earlier deal was due to end in June 2025.
Ronaldo’s achievements on the pitch remain unmatched.
Since his professional debut with Sporting CP in 2002, he has scored over 900 goals and won five Champions League titles, seven domestic league trophies, and five Ballon d’Or awards.
He has also played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, leaving a mark on every club.
Despite turning 40, Ronaldo continues to break records. He briefly returned to Manchester United in 2021 before joining Al-Nassr.
Off the pitch, he received the Portuguese Football Federation’s Globe Prestige Award for 22 years of national service.
Ronaldo remains focused on the future and has dismissed all retirement rumors. He continues to train with intensity and aims to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His leadership will again be tested as Portugal prepares for European qualifiers against Croatia and Poland.
“I’m still focused, still hungry. The World Cup is a goal, and I’m preparing for it methodically,” Ronaldo said.
Cristiano Ronaldo, now recognized as the first footballer worth a billion dollars, shows no signs of slowing down. His journey from Madeira to global superstardom remains one of football’s most inspiring stories.
