Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 6:55 am

Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes the First Football Billionaire

Cristiano Ronaldo
Highlights
  • Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth reaches $1.4 billion, making him the first footballer billionaire.
  • His new contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr is reportedly worth over $400 million.
  • Ronaldo earns tax-free salary, with extra perks like a private jet and a stake in the club.
  • Ronaldo plans to retire at Al-Nassr and hopes to own multiple football clubs in the future.

Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Achievement

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s greatest icons, has now reached another milestone — becoming the first billionaire football player. His total net worth has climbed to $1.4 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which valued his wealth for the first time.

Over his 20-year career with top clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, the Portuguese legend has earned hundreds of millions not only from football but also from major brands such as Nike, Armani, and Castrol.

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Saudi Contract Pushes Him to Billionaire Status

In June, Cristiano Ronaldo signed a new contract extension with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia worth more than $400 million, including bonuses and commercial deals. This contract made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.

Saudi Arabia’s tax-free income also boosted his fortune. Reports say his deal includes private jet access, a $30 million signing bonus, and even an equity stake in Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo said he joined the club because he wanted a “new challenge”, claiming he had already “won everything” in Europe.

From Poverty to Global Fame

Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey from a poor boy in Madeira to a global superstar is an inspiring one. He left school at 14 to focus on football. His talent was quickly noticed by Sporting Lisbon scout Aurélio Pereira, who remembered him as a shy but gifted boy nicknamed “UFO”.

Madeira now honors him with the Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, Museum CR7, and Hotel Pestana CR7.

The CR7 museum in Funchal, on Ronaldo’s home island of Madeira

Named after former US President Ronald Reagan, Ronaldo has earned over $550 million in salary from 2002 to 2023, and around $175 million from endorsements.

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Comparing Ronaldo and Messi

For years, Ronaldo and Lionel Messi had similar earnings. But after Ronaldo’s 2023 move to Saudi Arabia, their incomes diverged. Messi’s current salary at Inter Miami is around $20 million annually, while Ronaldo earns about $200 million per year.

Bloomberg notes that Messi’s deal includes a possible ownership stake in Inter Miami, which could increase his long-term wealth.

Managing and Investing His Wealth

Ronaldo’s finances are managed by Miguel Marques of LMcapital Wealth Management in Lisbon. Most of his investments are in Portugal, where he supports local businesses and sports facilities like the Lisboa Racket Center and City of Padel.

He also owns luxury properties in Lisbon and Madeira, including a new €20 million estate in Quinta da Marinha, which has attracted tourists trying to see his mansion.

Social Media and Global Influence

With over 660 million Instagram followers, Ronaldo is the most followed person in the world. His fame played a major role in promoting Saudi Arabia as a new football and tourism hub.

Although his initial matches in Saudi Arabia drew massive crowds, attendance has since declined. Still, Ronaldo praises the “safety and beauty” of Saudi Arabia and often shares his life there on social media.

Life Beyond Football

At 40, Ronaldo remains among the oldest active professionals in world football. He has said he plans to retire at Al-Nassr and dreams of owning football clubs, following David Beckham’s example.

As part of his new deal, Ronaldo reportedly received a 15% ownership stake in Al-Nassr, marking the beginning of his transition from player to businessman.

With his wealth and influence still rising, Ronaldo’s story continues to inspire millions — a journey from a poor boy in Madeira to football’s first billionaire.

Source: Bloomberg

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