Sports
Ronaldo Joins Billionaires’ Club with $1.4 Billion Net Worth
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially joined the billionaires’ club, becoming the first active footballer to reach billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
The index, which listed the Portuguese superstar’s wealth for the first time this week, estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion, factoring in his career earnings, endorsement deals, and investments.
Bloomberg credited Ronaldo’s tax-free contract in Saudi Arabia and lucrative brand partnerships with Armani and Nike as major contributors to his soaring fortune.
As reported by BBC Sport and ESPN on Wednesday, the 40-year-old Al-Nassr forward further boosted his wealth earlier this year after signing a two-year contract extension with the Saudi Pro League club. The deal, reportedly worth over $400 million, will keep him at Al-Nassr beyond his 42nd birthday.
Speaking to Canal 11, Ronaldo addressed talks about retirement and his passion for the game despite pressure from loved ones:
“People, especially my family, say: ‘It’s time for you to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?’” Ronaldo said.
“But I don’t think so. I think I’m still producing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team, and why not keep going? I’m sure that when I finish, I’ll be fulfilled, because I gave it my all. I know I don’t have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also received the Prestige Award at the Portugal Football Globes on Tuesday, recognizing his lasting impact on the sport.
“It’s not an end-of-career award,” Ronaldo said. “I see it as recognition of years of effort, dedication and ambition. I like winning, helping the younger generations, and they also help me maintain my level and continue competing.
That’s what excites me: competing with the younger ones. I still have a passion for this.”
With his net worth surpassing $1 billion, Cristiano Ronaldo has not only cemented his legacy as one of football’s greatest players but also established himself as one of the most successful sports businessmen in the world.
