The Digest:
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first footballer to achieve billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
Key Points:
- Cristiano Ronaldo – $1.4 billion: The Al Nassr star's wealth comes from a record contract and his expansive CR7 brand, including fashion, hotels, and fitness ventures.
- Lionel Messi – $850 million: The Inter Miami forward's fortune is built on legendary contracts and high-value partnerships with Adidas and Pepsi.
- David Beckham – $500 million: The retired icon's wealth stems from brand endorsements and his ownership stake in Inter Miami CF.
- Neymar Jr. – $350 million: Massive salaries at PSG and Al Hilal, plus sponsorships with Puma, fuel the Brazilian's wealth.
- Kylian Mbappé – $250-300 million: His move to Real Madrid and deals with Nike and Hublot keep his fortune growing steeply.
- Wayne Rooney – $216 million: Earnings from his playing career are now supplemented by his work as a manager and media personality.
- Karim Benzema – $200 million: A legendary run at Real Madrid and a subsequent move to Al-Ittihad built his fortune.
- Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 million: Charisma and brand power, with deals from Nike and Volvo, contributed to his wealth.
- Ronaldo Nazário – $160 million: The Brazilian icon's wealth comes from elite '90s contracts and current club ownership stakes.
- Gareth Bale – $145 million: His time at Real Madrid and endorsements funded ventures into golf and property post-retirement.
This list showcases the immense financial power modern footballers can wield, both on and off the pitch.
Sources: The Nation
