Cristiano Ronaldo has carved his name in the history of soccer as the ‘first footballer ever to reach billionaire status’, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Now 40, the iconic forward’s fortune has soared to approximately $1.4 billion, crowning him as the richest player in soccer history.
This historic achievement follows Ronaldo’s big shift to the Saudi Arabian Club Al-Nassr in late 2022. His initial contract reportedly paid him over $200 million per year in tax-free salary and bonuses. In June 2025, Ronaldo signed a new two-year extension believed to exceed $400 million, which includes a combination of salary, commercial bonuses, and a 15% ownership stake in the club, a deal that is considered one of the most lucrative in sports history.
Interestingly, Ronaldo’s rise to billionaire status wasn’t fueled by salary alone. Over more than two decades of professional football, he has earned upwards of $550 million from his stints with giants like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. Off the pitch, he has built a vast commercial empire through sponsorships with Nike, Armani, Castrol, and through his own CR7 brand portfolio, which spans fashion, hotels, and fitness centers.
Speaking at the recent Football Globe Awards in Portugal, he said, “I still help my club and my national team. Why stop now?” Despite nearing the twilight of his career, Ronaldo is unstoppable and at the top of his game. His undeterred commitment, combined with Saudi Arabia’s major sports investments, has raised the global profile of the Saudi Pro League and cemented Ronaldo’s legacy, both as a football legend and one of the most successful athlete entrepreneurs in history.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in sport, Ronaldo’s presence has elevated the profile of the Saudi Pro League globally. Now, Ronaldo joins an elite circle of billionaire athletes that includes icons like LeBron James, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, and even Lionel Messi. His financial milestone further ensures his legacy as a celebrated footballing legend and now as one of the most successful athletes in business history.
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