Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first footballer to reach billionaire status

Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name in history once again—this time not for his exploits on the pitch, but for his staggering financial achievement.

As of October 2025, Ronaldo has officially become the first footballer to reach billionaire status, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion.

This milestone places him among an elite group of athletes, including Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and LeBron James, who have crossed the billion-dollar threshold through a combination of sports earnings and business ventures.

Ronaldo’s journey to billionaire status is built on decades of consistent excellence and strategic career moves.

His football salary alone has contributed over $550 million, earned during stints with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and currently Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

His 2022 move to Al-Nassr was a financial game-changer, with an initial $200 million annual deal that was extended in June 2025 for two more years—reportedly worth over $400 million and including a 15% stake in the club.

Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo has cultivated a powerful brand empire. His endorsement deals with global giants like Nike, Armani, Herbalife, and Binance have brought in over $175 million.

His CR7 brand spans fashion, fragrances, hotels, gyms, and eyewear, making him a formidable entrepreneur.

His social media presence—boasting over 600 million Instagram followers—further amplifies his marketability, making him the most-followed athlete in the world and a top-tier influencer.

At 40 years old, Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to perform at a high level for both club and country, recently stating, “I’m still producing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team.

Why not continue?” His billionaire status is not just a personal triumph—it’s a testament to the evolving economics of football and the power of personal branding in the modern sports era.