Cristiano Ronaldo has made headlines once again, this time for his monumental earnings in the world of football. According to Bloomberg, he has become the first footballer to reach billionaire status.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Earnings
Since joining Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League in 2022, Ronaldo secured a staggering annual salary of £177 million. This remarkable deal positioned him as the highest-paid player in football history. Initially, his contract was set to expire in June 2025. However, he recently extended it with a new two-year agreement reportedly exceeding $400 million (£298 million).
Comparison with Lionel Messi
Ronaldo’s earnings stand in contrast to those of his long-time rival, Lionel Messi. The Argentine forward, currently with Inter Miami, has earned over $600 million (£447 million) in pre-tax salary throughout his career. Notably, Messi has been receiving an annual guaranteed pay of $20 million (£15 million) since 2023, which is roughly 10% of Ronaldo’s income during the same timeframe.
Future Prospects for Messi
As he approaches retirement, the 38-year-old Messi is set to receive a stake in Inter Miami, adding further financial incentives to his career earnings. The ongoing rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi highlights their extraordinary contributions to football and their immense commercial value.
Key Takeaways
- Cristiano Ronaldo is now the first billionaire footballer, according to Bloomberg.
- His contract with Al-Nassr pays him £177 million annually.
- Ronaldo has signed a new two-year deal worth over $400 million.
- Lionel Messi has earned over $600 million in his career, with smaller annual earnings compared to Ronaldo.
- Messi is expected to gain a stake in Inter Miami post-retirement.
The financial landscape of football continues to evolve, with players like Ronaldo and Messi leading the way in earnings and brand value.
