Cristiano Ronaldo Makes History as Soccer’s First Billionaire Player Reports Bloomberg
Cristiano Ronaldo: The First Billionaire in Soccer
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Al Nassr Contract
Cristiano Ronaldo has made history as the first soccer player to achieve billionaire status, a milestone confirmed by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The iconic Portuguese forward’s journey to this financial pinnacle was significantly propelled by his lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. After joining Al Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo set a new standard with a staggering annual salary of approximately $200 million, making him the highest-paid player in soccer history. In June 2025, the 40-year-old further extended his stay with a new two-year contract, reportedly valued at over $400 million in tax-free earnings, elevating his net worth to an impressive $1.4 billion.
Income Diversification: Sponsorship and Business Endeavors
While Ronaldo’s salary at Al Nassr forms a large portion of his wealth, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has accumulated significant earnings from various endorsements and business ventures worldwide. His long-term partnerships include a ten-year deal with Nike worth nearly $18 million annually. Additional deals with high-profile brands like Armani and Castrol have contributed more than $175 million to his fortune. Beyond sponsorships, Ronaldo’s financial acumen is evident in his investments across real estate and enterprises in countries such as Portugal and Spain.
Joining the Elite: Billionaire Athletes
Ronaldo now shares the billionaire athlete club with Michael Jordan and Roger Federer, both of whom reached this financial status through diverse investment strategies. Jordan’s substantial wealth stemmed from his strategic endorsement deals with Nike and his past ownership of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. Federer, meanwhile, benefited from his stake in Swiss sportswear company On. Ronaldo’s insight and business ventures have positioned him alongside these sports legends.
Future Aspirations: The Ambition of Club Ownership
Looking ahead, Ronaldo has expressed his interest in owning soccer clubs upon his retirement. In a notable interview with Portugal’s Canal 11, Ronaldo shared his vision: “If I can be a club owner, why would I be a manager, sporting director, or CEO? This is my dream, and I’m sure I’ll get there. I’ll even say more: I hope to not only have one club but to own several clubs.”
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