Cristiano Ronaldo, the world-famous Portuguese soccer player, has been dominating headlines in the sports world for decades now. He recently re-upped his deal with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Since his joining the club in 2022, he has subsequently become the highest-paid player in football history. His incredible national salary is now worth £177 million. This new two-year deal carries his contract beyond his 42nd birthday. It’s estimated at more than $400 million (£298 million).
Although Ronaldo’s deal is still being finalized, the announcement itself recognizes Ronaldo as one of the big-time, global athletes. Beyond the cultural reach, he is turning out to be a financial megastar. Today, his net worth stands at a staggering $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion). This signing officially makes him the first-ever billionaire football player, as per Bloomberg. This valuation takes into account his impressive lifelong earnings, investments and endorsement opportunities.
In guaranteed annual salary, Ronaldo has made $20 million (£15 million) since 2023. This amount is equal to about 10% of his gross earnings in that period. His last deal with Al-Nassr was due to run until June 2025. Yet a surprise two-year extension last week means he is assured of remaining with the club through at least 2027.
In fact, Ronaldo makes a big chunk of his income as the face of his 10-year endorsement contract with Nike. This collaboration contributes nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually. Beyond his lucrative football income, this strategic partnership played an integral part to his monetary successes off the field of play.
During his storied career, no player alive has ascended to the incredible heights that Ronaldo has on the pitch. He shares a world record with 223 caps for Portugal. This achievement is a testament to his amazing creativity and historic durability to the game. Despite competing against other football greats, including Lionel Messi, who reportedly has different financial figures associated with his contracts, Ronaldo’s recent deal reaffirms his unique position in the football landscape.