Introduction to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Net Worth
Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first billionaire footballer, with his net worth estimated at $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion) by the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This assessment puts Ronaldo in a small group of billionaire athletes, including basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James, as well as golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.
Career Earnings and Endorsements
Bloomberg said Ronaldo earned more than $550 million (£410.4 million) in salary between 2002, when he began his career with Portuguese team Sporting CP, and 2023. He also earned almost $18 million (£13.4 million) a year from a decade-long sponsorship with Nike, and endorsements from brands such as Armani and Castrol, increasing his fortune by more than $175 million (£130.6 million).
Recent Contracts and Earnings
After leaving Manchester United by mutual agreement, Ronaldo signed with Al Nassr in 2023 and became the highest-paid player in history with a salary of around $237.2 million (£177 million) – plus bonuses and a reported 15% stake in the club. Ronaldo is still playing at 40 and has just signed a new contract with the Saudi team, reportedly worth more than $400 million (£298.5 million).
Future Plans and Ambitions
With the World Cup next year, Ronaldo shows no signs of hanging up his boots, telling the Portugal Football Globes gala: "I still have a passion for it." He added: "My family says it’s time to stop and they ask me why I want to score 1,000 goals when I’ve already scored over 900. But inside I don’t think that way." Ronaldo is determined to carry on playing, saying: "I’m still doing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team. Why not carry on? I’m sure that when I’m finished I’ll leave with full strength because I’ve given everything of myself."
Comparison with Other Athletes
Bloomberg also reported that Inter Miami and Argentina’s Lionel Messi earned more than $600 million (£448 million) over the course of his career but was not a billionaire like his career rival. Ronaldo’s net worth and career earnings are a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport, and he continues to be an inspiration to fans around the world.
