Ronaldo becomes first billionaire player

Portuguese international footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has set a new record, becoming the first professional football player with a net worth of over US$1 billion, according to an estimate from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

The latest data estimates the Madeira native's fortune at US$1.4 billion.

According to the index published by the financial information agency, the most recent increase in CR7's fortune is related to his contract renewal with Saudi club Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth US$400 million.

The estimated net worth takes into account factors such as the player's earnings, investments, and advertising contracts, adjusted for taxes and market performance.

For example, Bloomberg estimates that the player earned US$550 million in salary between 2002 and 2023 and highlights the decade-long contract he signed with Nike, worth US$18 million per year. Ronaldo also has other promotional contracts with brands such as Armani and Castrol, adding US$175 million to his net worth.

But the real highlight is his move to Al-Nassr in 2023, a decision that caused surprise. With this decision, Ronaldo now earns R$200 million per year in salary and bonuses, tax-free, plus a signing bonus of R$30 million.

In light of this information, Bloomberg attempted to contact LMcapital Wealth Management, which helps manage Ronaldo's fortune, and a public relations agency that works with CR7. However, both declined to comment.

I don’t place a high value on professional athletes relative to other professions. Certainly Renaldo and others who are exceptional in their skills should be highly paid, but are his skills worth more than the skills of doctors and other health care practitioners, or skills of educators? I just hope that he uses his wealth in pursuit and support of worthy endeavors, and does not support unethical or fascist political parties or candidates.

By JoeT from Algarve on 09 Oct 2025, 09:41