The first billionaire footballer is "Cristiano Ronaldo"

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has made history. According to the latest data from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, he has become the first footballer in the world to be listed as a billionaire. Ronaldo's current wealth is estimated at $1.4 billion.

The 40-year-old legend currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nasr. His financial progress has accelerated significantly after he signed a new contract with Al-Nasr last June. The contract is estimated to be worth more than $400 million.

According to Bloomberg, Ronaldo has earned more than $550 million in salary from 2002 to 2023. In addition, he has a long-term association with Nike, through which he earns an estimated $18 million per year. He has also earned $175 million from advertising for Armani, Castrol and other world-famous brands.

Ronaldo has become the highest-paid footballer in history after leaving Manchester United to join Al-Nassr in 2023. His annual salary at the Saudi club is around £177 million ($237.5 million), which includes bonuses and a 15 percent stake in the club.

On the other hand, Argentine star Lionel Messi has earned more than $600 million in salary during his career, after tax.

Ronaldo in the prestigious group of billionaire athletes

Ronaldo's achievement has placed him in the prestigious group of billionaire athletes. This list includes basketball legend Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, golf star Tiger Woods and tennis legend Roger Federer.

Ronaldo said about his future at the Football Globes Gala in Portugal, "I haven't lost interest in football yet. "My family sometimes says, 'Stop now, you've scored over 900 goals, what's the need for 1000 goals?' But I don't think like that from the inside. I'm still playing well, helping my club and national team. So why stop? I know I don't have many years left in my playing career, but I have to enjoy the time I have."