Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to join the billionaire ranks, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which for the first time has valued the Portuguese superstar’s net worth at an estimated $1.4 billion.

The 40-year-old Al-Nassr and Portugal forward amassed his fortune through a combination of career earnings, brand endorsements, and investments over more than two decades at the top of world football. Bloomberg’s valuation includes salary, sponsorships, and assets, adjusted for taxes and market conditions.

Between 2002 and 2023, Ronaldo earned over $550 million in salary alone, playing for elite clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His off-field earnings have been equally substantial, with a decade-long endorsement deal with Nike worth $18 million annually, and lucrative partnerships with global brands such as Armani and Castrol, contributing over $175 million.

His move in late 2022 to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr marked a turning point in his financial trajectory. Initially signing a contract reported to be worth $200 million (£157 million) annually in tax-free wages and bonuses — the highest average annual salary in professional sport — Ronaldo extended his deal in June 2025 for another two years, reportedly worth over $400 million (£298 million). The new deal will see him remain at the club beyond his 42nd birthday and is believed to include further perks such as a signing bonus, private jet access, and potentially an equity stake in the club.

Ronaldo's wealth now places him among the richest sports figures globally, alongside the likes of NBA legend Michael Jordan and golfer Tiger Woods, both of whom also crossed the billion-dollar threshold largely through off-field ventures.

His long-time rival, Argentina’s Lionel Messi, has also earned handsomely — more than $600 million in pre-tax wages over his career. Since joining Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has been receiving $20 million annually, around one-tenth of Ronaldo’s Saudi income during the same period. However, Messi is set to receive an ownership stake in Inter Miami upon retirement, a deal that could eventually bring his net worth closer to Ronaldo’s.

Ronaldo’s journey from humble beginnings in Madeira to becoming football’s first billionaire reflects a career defined not only by extraordinary talent and on-pitch achievements but also by savvy brand-building and a willingness to explore new frontiers — both competitively and financially.