Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first active footballer to reach billionaire status.
The Al-Nassr star’s net worth now stands at an estimated $1.4 billion.
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially joined the ranks of global billionaires, becoming the first active footballer to achieve the milestone, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The report, released this week, placed the Portuguese star’s net worth at around $1.4 billion.
Bloomberg’s assessment took into account Ronaldo’s career earnings, endorsement contracts, and growing investment portfolio. The 40-year-old forward for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr has benefited immensely from his tax-free deal with the club and long-standing partnerships with global brands like Armani and Nike.
Reports from BBC Sport and ESPN revealed that Ronaldo, already the highest-paid footballer in the world, increased his earnings further earlier this year after signing a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr valued at more than $400 million. The deal will keep him with the Saudi Pro League side until after his 42nd birthday.
Speaking to Canal 11, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he had no plans to retire soon, despite suggestions from his family to slow down. “People, especially my family, say it’s time for me to stop. But I don’t think so. I believe I’m still doing good things for my club and country,” Ronaldo said. “I know I don’t have many years left, but I want to enjoy the time I still have.”
Ronaldo also received the Prestige Award at the Portugal Football Globes on Tuesday, which he described as recognition of his years of effort and commitment. “It’s not an end-of-career award,” he said. “It’s about ambition, dedication, and continuing to compete with younger players who inspire me to stay at my best.”
With his net worth now exceeding $1 billion, Bloomberg noted that Ronaldo’s financial success places him not only among the greatest players in football history but also among the most accomplished athletes and businessmen in the world.
