RIYADH — Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first footballer in history to reach billionaire status, according to financial information and media firm Bloomberg.

The Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks the world’s richest individuals based on their net worth, has listed the 40-year-old Portugal and Al-Nassr striker with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion).

The valuation includes Ronaldo’s career earnings, investments, and global endorsement deals, noting that he earned more than $550 million (£410 million) in salary between 2002 and 2023.

Among his most lucrative partnerships is a decade-long deal with Nike, worth nearly $18 million (£13.4 million) annually.

When Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League in late 2022, he reportedly became the best-paid player in football history, earning an annual salary of £177 million ($220 million).

His contract, initially set to expire in June 2025, was extended for two more years in a deal reportedly worth more than $400 million (£298 million), keeping him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.

Bloomberg’s analysis shows that Ronaldo’s total income and business portfolio — which includes fashion, fitness, hotels, and fragrances — has pushed him into billionaire territory, a first for any football player.

For comparison, Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has earned more than $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary during his career, including around $20 million (£15 million) annually since 2023, roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income over the same period.

Messi, 38, is also set to receive a stake in Inter Miami as part of his retirement deal, Bloomberg noted. — Agencies