The first footballer in history to achieve this status on his own!
According to recent reports, Cristiano Ronaldo has finally achieved billionaire status, becoming the first footballer in history to achieve this with his own earnings - a feat that places him in a special category among the richest athletes in the world.
How did it all start?
In June 2020, the media spread the news that Ronaldo had crossed the “billion-dollar threshold,” but what had actually happened was that his earnings during that year had reached $105 million, bringing his total career earnings to over $1 billion. However, he was not yet a billionaire in terms of net worth, as taxes, expenses, and investments reduced this figure.
What changed now?
In 2025, the situation has changed radically thanks to the colossal contract he signed with the Saudi club Al Nassr, which is the largest contract in the history of the sport.
Contract content:
$224 million per year as base salary
$31 million signing bonus (can be increased to $48 million)
15% stake in Al Nassr, worth $42 million
$5 million for private jet trips paid for by the club
16 full-time domestic staff members paid by Al Nassr
Bonuses and other incentives up to $20 million
Commercial deals and sponsorships worth $76 million
Some sources suggest that if all bonuses and sponsorships are activated, the total value of the deal could reach $936 million, or $468 million per year.
What's next?
At the age of 40, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to be included in Forbes' upcoming ranking of the world's richest athletes.
A living example of how talent, hard work and vision for business can build a true personal empire.
Photo Credit: Pau Barrena - UEFA / Contributor
Source: UEFA
