Cristiano Ronaldo has officially made history by becoming football’s first billionaire player. The 40-year-old Portugal and Al-Nassr striker has now joined the ranks of the world’s wealthiest people, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index. This remarkable milestone marks a new chapter in the sports world, proving how far the business side of football has evolved. Bloomberg estimated Ronaldo’s net worth at $1.4 billion, taking into account his long career earnings, brand endorsements, and smart investments over the years.

Ronaldo’s football journey began in 2002, and since then, he has reportedly earned over $550 million in salary alone. A huge part of his wealth also comes from endorsement deals, including a decade-long partnership with Nike valued at about $18 million annually. In 2022, he joined Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he signed what was then the biggest contract in football history. His annual salary of £177 million broke records, and earlier this year, he extended his deal with the club for two more years, reportedly worth more than $400 million. This contract secures his position as one of the highest earners in global sports even as he approaches his 42nd birthday.

Ronaldo’s financial success places him ahead of his longtime rival Lionel Messi, who has also earned massive sums throughout his career. Bloomberg reports that Messi has made more than $600 million in pre-tax salary and earns about $20 million a year at Inter Miami. Unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi is expected to receive a stake in the club when he retires, adding another layer to their historic rivalry.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s billionaire status is not just a personal achievement but also a powerful reflection of football’s global influence. From his humble beginnings to global superstardom, his journey embodies ambition, business acumen, and longevity at the top.

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