Cristiano Ronaldo becomes football’s first billionaire, eyes 2026 World Cup
Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first player in history to reach billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which now estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion.
The 40-year-old Al-Nassr forward’s wealth has been fueled by a lucrative June 2025 contract extension with the Saudi club, reportedly worth over $400 million. The deal includes a $200 million annual salary and a rare 15% ownership stake in the team.
Since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has maintained top form, scoring 54 goals in his first full season and already adding 12 more this campaign.
Off the field, Ronaldo's global brand power drives major earnings. A lifetime Nike contract, plus deals with Herbalife, Clear, Binance and others, contribute to his estimated $260 million in pre-tax earnings for the 2024–25 season. His CR7 brand spans fashion, hotels, fitness, media, and aviation.
Ronaldo has also collected over 900 career goals, five Champions League titles, seven league championships, and five Ballon d’Or awards during stints at Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
Recently honored with the Globe Prestige Award for 22 years of service to the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo reflected on his career, stating, “People say, ‘It’s time to stop,’ but I still feel I’m doing good things. Why stop now?”
As he looks toward the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo remains committed to representing Portugal, with key qualifiers against Croatia and Poland on the horizon.
