LISBON/NEW YORK – Cristiano Ronaldo (40) has set a monumental record, becoming the first player in football history to be named on the Billionaire list. Following an unprecedented contract extension with the Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr last June, his net worth has been confirmed to reach $1.4 billion (approximately 1.9946 trillion KRW, according to Bloomberg's tally).
Astronomical Contract Marks the Apex of Wealth
Ronaldo's billionaire status was decisively secured by his contract extension with Al-Nassr last June. The extension is reportedly valued at over $400 million (approximately 569.8 billion KRW), making him the highest-paid active athlete in terms of average annual salary. The income earned in Saudi Arabia is tax-exempt and is known to include various perks, such as the use of a private jet, along with a 15% stake in the club (approximately 33 million pounds).
This achievement is the result of a brilliant career spanning over 20 years with European giants like Manchester United and Juventus, combined with numerous commercial partnerships with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Armani. Notably, his 10-year contract with Nike is worth close to $18 million (approximately 25.6 billion KRW) annually. Throughout his playing career, Ronaldo has earned over $550 million (approximately 783.5 billion KRW) just in salary.
Victory in the 'Money War' Against Rival Messi
Long-time rival Lionel Messi has also commanded top-tier salaries in the football world, but Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr sharply diverged the two players' paths to wealth. Messi joined Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami, securing a guaranteed annual salary of $20 million (approximately 28.5 billion KRW)—about one-tenth of what Ronaldo earns in Saudi Arabia over the same period. However, Messi is slated to receive a stake in the Inter Miami club after retirement, leaving open the possibility of once again rivaling Ronaldo.
Asset Portfolio Bolstered by Investments and Real Estate
Ronaldo is actively investing his wealth, primarily in his home country, Portugal. He manages his assets through the asset management company LM Capital in Lisbon and focuses on various businesses and investments within Portugal. While he owns his personal brand CR7, a hotel chain, fitness centers, and a media group, the core of his wealth remains his overwhelming salary and sponsorship deals.
Furthermore, he has built a substantial real estate portfolio, including a super-expensive penthouse in Lisbon, a mansion in Madeira, and an ultra-luxury €20 million (approximately 29 billion KRW) residence in Quinta da Marinha, which is currently nearing completion. This demonstrates his growing status as an entrepreneur and investor beyond football.
'World Star' Ronaldo Becomes the Face of Saudi Arabia
With over 660 million Instagram followers, Ronaldo is the world's most popular individual. His transfer to Al-Nassr is seen as part of Saudi Arabia's national effort to enhance its image for tourism and investment. While the initial excitement led to sold-out home matches, the fervor has somewhat subsided. Nonetheless, Ronaldo actively champions the quality of the Saudi Pro League and shares his experiences through social media.
Ronaldo's case as a billionaire differs from other sports billionaires like Michael Jordan or Roger Federer. While Jordan's wealth largely stems from his Nike endorsement deal and team ownership stakes, and Federer's from his stake in the sportswear brand 'On Holding,' Ronaldo's wealth is primarily sourced from his salary.
Plans After Football Retirement
Ronaldo has stated his plan to retire at Al-Nassr and expressed his ambition to become a football club owner, following in the footsteps of David Beckham. By already securing a 15% stake in Al-Nassr as part of his contract extension, his dream is already taking shape. With the massive fortune he has amassed, a variety of options are open to Ronaldo after his playing days, which will define his next chapter in life.
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