Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first football billionaire with mega Saudi deal
Bloomberg values the Al-Nassr striker’s wealth at an estimated $1.4 billion
DUBAI – Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become football’s first billionaire, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index, which now lists the 40-year-old Al-Nassr forward among the world’s richest people.
The Portuguese legend’s estimated net worth of $1.4 billion marks a new milestone in the sport’s financial history, cementing his place as the highest-earning footballer of all time.
Bloomberg’s valuation includes Ronaldo’s lifetime career earnings, sponsorships, and investments. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star has reportedly earned more than $550 million in salary between 2002 and 2023, while his endorsement portfolio – featuring Nike, Armani and Castrol – has continued to expand over the years.
Saudi fortune
Ronaldo joined Riyadh-based Al-Nassr in 2022, becoming the best-paid player in football history. His initial deal, due to expire in mid-2025, has now been extended by two years in a contract reportedly worth more than $400 million (Dh1.47 billion), keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday. The Saudi arrangement also grants him full tax exemption on his income, further boosting his financial standing.
His CR7 empire, encompassing underwear, footwear, and fragrances, has added another layer of wealth to his vast portfolio. With more than 665 million followers on Instagram, he remains one of the most marketable athletes in the world – his influence as valuable as his performance on the pitch.
Rivalry renewed
Ronaldo’s wealth outpaces that of his long-time rival Lionel Messi, whose total career salary stands at around $600 million. The Argentine forward, now at Inter Miami, earns an annual $20 million – about 10 per cent of Ronaldo’s Saudi income – and is expected to gain a stake in the MLS club upon retirement.
Love and legacy
Off the pitch, Ronaldo’s life continues to capture global attention. In August 2025, he and his long-term partner Georgina Rodríguez announced their engagement, marking a milestone in a relationship that began in Madrid in 2016. The couple share two daughters, Alana Martina and Bella Esmeralda, alongside Ronaldo’s three other children – Cristiano Jr., Eva and Mateo – all living together in Riyadh.