Bloomberg estimates the 40-year-old Al-Nassr and Portugal forward’s net worth at $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion), marking the first time the football icon has featured on the prestigious global list.
The valuation takes into account Ronaldo’s career earnings, business investments, and endorsement deals, with Bloomberg noting that he has earned more than $550 million (£410 million) in salaries between 2002 and 2023.
Ronaldo’s commercial influence extends far beyond the pitch. His decade-long partnership with Nike, reportedly worth nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) per year, and numerous brand endorsements — including his own CR7 fashion and lifestyle ventures — have been key contributors to his wealth.
When Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League in 2022, he became the highest-paid footballer in history, earning an estimated £177 million annually. Earlier this year, he extended his contract for another two years — a deal reportedly valued at over $400 million (£298 million) — keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.
Bloomberg’s report also compared Ronaldo’s financial standing with that of long-time rival Lionel Messi, who has earned more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary over his career. Messi currently plays for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS) and earns around $20 million (£15 million) in guaranteed annual pay — roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income in the same period.
The Argentine legend is expected to receive an ownership stake in Inter Miami upon retirement, adding to his post-career wealth potential.
Ronaldo’s billionaire status underscores his enduring global brand power and financial discipline. From his early days at Sporting Lisbon, through trophy-laden spells at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, to his current Saudi Arabian chapter, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has turned his sporting excellence into a business empire — and now, a milestone in football history.