Cristiano Ronaldo has reached a significant milestone in the world of football by becoming the first-ever billionaire player, as reported by the financial information and media firm Bloomberg. This remarkable achievement underscores not just his prowess on the pitch but also his strategic business acumen off it.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which closely monitors the net worth of the world’s wealthiest individuals, the 40-year-old Portuguese star, currently playing for Al-Nassr, has had his wealth evaluated for the very first time. The assessment reveals that Ronaldo’s net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion). This impressive figure considers his extensive career earnings, astute investments, and lucrative endorsement deals.
Ronaldo’s earnings are staggering—he reportedly garnered over $550 million (£410 million) in salary alone from 2002 to 2023. The breakdown of these earnings reflects his various endorsement deals and sponsorship agreements. Notably, his partnership with Nike spans a decade, valued at nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually, showcasing his marketability and global appeal.
In an unprecedented move, when Ronaldo transitioned to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League in 2022, he secured the title of the best-paid player in football history, with an astonishing annual salary of £177 million. This contract initially set to conclude in June 2025, was recently extended with a new deal reportedly exceeding $400 million (£298 million), ensuring his presence in the club beyond his 42nd birthday. Such financial muscle not only highlights his exceptional skill set but also the evolving nature of football’s global market.
On the flip side, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s long-time rival and current forward for Inter Miami, has also made headlines with his earnings. Over the course of his career, Messi has amassed more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary, according to Bloomberg. This figure includes a guaranteed annual payment of $20 million (£15 million) since 2023, illustrating that while Messi’s income during this period is about 10% of Ronaldo’s, it is still a testament to his exceptional status in the sport.
Furthermore, upon retiring, Messi is expected to receive a stake in Inter Miami, further solidifying his connection to the team and the sport long after his playing days are over. The financial endeavors and career trajectories of both Ronaldo and Messi not only position them as titans of football but also as key figures in the sports business landscape. Their influence will undoubtedly shape the future of football, both on and off the field.
World of sports 
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