Cristiano Ronaldo has officially entered the billionaire club — not just as one of the greatest athletes of all time, but as football’s first-ever billionaire, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index.

The 40-year-old Portugal and Al-Nassr striker has amassed an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion (£1.04 billion), marking a historic milestone in global sports. Bloomberg’s valuation includes Ronaldo’s career earnings, endorsements, and investments — reflecting over two decades of dominance both on and off the pitch.

From his early years at Sporting CP to global stardom with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, Ronaldo has redefined what it means to be a footballer in the business age. His on-field earnings exceed $550 million (£410 million) between 2002 and 2023, while long-term partnerships with brands like Nike, Clear, and Herbalife have added hundreds of millions more.

When Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League in 2022, he made headlines with what was then the highest-paid player contract in football history — £177 million annually. His recently extended two-year deal, reportedly worth over $400 million (£298 million), will keep him playing beyond his 42nd birthday.

For comparison, Lionel Messi’s total pre-tax career salary stands at around $600 million (£447 million), nearly half of Ronaldo’s total income to date. While Messi continues his career at Inter Miami, earning $20 million annually and a future stake in the club, Ronaldo’s empire already stretches far beyond football — spanning fashion, fitness, hospitality, and global brand ownership.

From his relentless drive to his strategic financial vision, Ronaldo has proven that success in sport can transcend the field. His journey marks the evolution of the modern athlete — from player to global business phenomenon.