Messi Trails As Ronaldo Becomes Football’s First Billionaire

Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first billionaire footballer, according to a new valuation by Bloomberg.

Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index, which tracks the net worth of the world’s wealthiest individuals, has for the first time listed the 40-year-old Al-Nassr and Portugal captain with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion (£1.04bn).

The financial data firm said Ronaldo’s fortune comes from a combination of career earnings, endorsements, and investments, making him the richest football player in history.

Bloomberg’s analysis shows that Ronaldo earned more than $550 million (£410million) in salaries between 2002 and 2023, spanning his playing career across Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr.

A significant portion of his wealth also comes from commercial deals and sponsorships — most notably a long-term partnership with Nike, reportedly worth nearly $18 million (£13.4million) annually.

Ronaldo became the highest-paid player in world football in 2022 when he joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, signing a record-breaking contract said to be worth £177 million per year. He has since extended his deal by two more years, with the new agreement reportedly exceeding $400 million (£298million) and keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.

Bloomberg noted that while Argentine star Lionel Messi has also amassed vast wealth — earning over $600 million (£447million) in pre-tax salary during his career — Ronaldo’s total earnings and investment portfolio place him ahead.

Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, earns about $20 million (£15million) annually and is expected to receive a stake in the Major League Soccer club when he retires.

Ronaldo’s billionaire status marks a milestone in sports finance, underscoring his global brand power and two-decade dominance both on and off the pitch.