Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 9: Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name in history by becoming the first-ever footballer to reach billionaire status, thanks to a record-breaking contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. While Ronaldo has long competed with Lionel Messi for football’s top honors on the pitch, this milestone marks a clear financial triumph for the Portuguese superstar.

Ronaldo’s move to the Saudi Pro League in 2023 has played a pivotal role in his wealth accumulation. Reports indicate that he now earns the highest annual salary of any sportsperson worldwide, and with Saudi Arabia’s tax-free regime, his take-home earnings far exceed what he earned during his stints at European clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United.

According to Bloomberg, Ronaldo’s net worth has surged to an estimated USD 1.4 billion. Between 2002 and 2023, while playing in Europe, the 40-year-old earned over USD 550 million in salaries alone. His decade-long partnership with Nike contributes around USD 18 million annually, while endorsements with brands such as Armani and Castrol have added more than USD 175 million to his fortune.

Since joining Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s earnings have reportedly touched USD 200 million per year, including salary and bonuses. A signing bonus of USD 30 million was part of the initial deal. The milestone that officially pushed him over the billion-dollar mark came with a contract extension signed in June 2025, reportedly worth over USD 400 million. The deal also granted Ronaldo a 15% stake in the Saudi club.

Beyond his football earnings, Ronaldo’s massive social media presence—over 660 million Instagram followers—along with a diverse real estate portfolio and business ventures, ensures he will remain among the world’s highest-earning athletes for years to come, even post-retirement.

This achievement cements Ronaldo’s status not just as a football legend, but also as a global brand and a financial powerhouse in the sporting world.