Ronaldo becomes first billionaire footballer

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first active footballer in history to achieve billionaire status, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion.

According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner reached the milestone following his record-breaking contract extension with Al Nassr, reportedly valued at over $400 million and inclusive of equity and performance bonuses—one of the most lucrative deals ever signed in football.

Ronaldo’s wealth extends far beyond the pitch. His global brand, CR7, encompasses fashion, hotels, fragrances, and fitness ventures, while his long-term endorsement deals with major companies such as Nike have contributed significantly to his financial success.

Ronaldo’s wealth means he appeared on the Bloomberg Billionaire Index, a list made by financial experts that keeps track of the richest people in the world.

Bloomberg Billionaire index calculate wealth by looking at salaries, investments, businesses, and property, and they update the list often as fortunes change.

Other footballers to look out for in term of their rising financial profiles are Lionel Messi ($850 million), David Beckham ($500 million), Neymar Jr. ($350 million), Kylian Mbappé ($250 – 300 million), Wayne Rooney ($216 million) and Karim Benzema ($200 million).