Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes First Active Footballer to Join Billionaire Club

Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes First Active Footballer to Join Billionaire Club

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first active footballer to attain billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which listed the Portuguese icon’s net worth for the first time this week.

Bloomberg estimates the 40-year-old Al-Nassr striker’s fortune at $1.4 billion, factoring in his career earnings, lucrative endorsement deals, and diverse investments. The Index highlighted Ronaldo’s tax-free contract in Saudi Arabia and brand affiliations with Armani and Nike as major contributors to his growing wealth.

As reported by BBC Sport and ESPN on Wednesday, Ronaldo—already the highest-paid player in football—further increased his earnings earlier this year by signing a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr. The deal, reportedly worth over $400 million, will keep him at the Saudi Pro League club beyond his 42nd birthday.

Speaking to Canal 11, Ronaldo, who holds the men’s international goal record with 141 goals in 223 appearances, dismissed retirement talks despite family pressure.

“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.”

On Tuesday, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was honored with the Prestige Award at the Portugal Football Globes.

“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.”

Bloomberg’s valuation confirms that Ronaldo’s net worth has now exceeded $1 billion, solidifying his legacy not only as one of football’s greatest athletes but also as one of its most accomplished entrepreneurs.

• Punjabi Singer Rajvir Jawanda Dies At 35 Following Tragic Motorcycle Accident
• INTERPOL Arrest Nigerian, Ikechukwu in Argentina Over Online Romance Scam
• Cubana Chief Priest Releases New Song With Pastor Tobi Adegboyega’s Choir Following Cancer Recovery