Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has officially joined the billionaires’ club, becoming the first active player to be listed on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index with a net worth of $1.4 billion.
Bloomberg, which published the ranking this week, attributed Ronaldo’s fortune to his massive career earnings, sponsorship deals, and growing business ventures.
The 40-year-old Al Nassr forward’s tax-free contract in Saudi Arabia, along with partnerships with global brands such as Armani and Nike, were listed as major contributors to his wealth.
Reports from BBC Sport and ESPN on Wednesday confirmed that Ronaldo’s two-year contract extension with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, reportedly valued at over $400 million, further strengthened his financial standing. The deal keeps him at the club until after his 42nd birthday.
Speaking to Canal 11, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he was not considering retirement despite calls from family members.
“People, especially my family, say: ‘It’s time for you to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?’ But I don’t think so. I think I’m still producing good things. I’m helping my club and the national team, and why not keep going?” he said.
“I know I don’t have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest,” he added.
Ronaldo, who holds the record for most international goals in men’s football with 141 in 223 appearances, also received the Prestige Award at the Portugal Football Globes on Tuesday.
“It’s not an end-of-career award,” he said. “I see it as recognition of years of effort, dedication, and ambition. I like winning, helping the younger generations, and they also help me maintain my level and continue competing. That’s what excites me: competing with the younger ones. I still have a passion for this.”
According to Bloomberg, Ronaldo’s total net worth has now surpassed $1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest sportsmen and cementing his status as both a football icon and a global businessman.
