Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly become the first active footballer to become a billionaire.
The Portuguese superstar has been named in the Bloomberg Billionaire Index which included his net worth in their list for the first time.
Ronaldo, who was already the highest-paid player in the sport, significantly enhanced his riches earlier this year when he reportedly signed a hefty contract extension worth over $400 million with Al Nassr, a Saudi Pro League team.
According to Bloomberg, his tax-free contract and brand agreements with Nike and Armani were major factors in his increased wealth.
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Ronaldo Not Intending To Retire Anytime Soon
Despite his family’s request, the Portugal forward meanwhille, who leads men’s international football in scoring with 141 goals in 223 games, told Canal 11 he had no plans to retire anytime soon.
“People, especially my family, say: ‘It’s time for you to stop. You’ve done everything. Why do you want to score a thousand goals?” Ronaldo said.
“But I don’t think so. I think I’m still producing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team, and why not keep going?
“I’m sure that when I finish, I’ll be fulfilled, because I gave it my all. I know I don’t have many more years, but the few I have, I try to enjoy to the fullest.”
Ronaldo, 40, who has won five Ballon d’Or awards, added another personal honor to his illustrious career on Tuesday when he was given the Prestige award at the Portugal Football Globes.
“It’s not an end-of-career award,” he said. “I see it as recognition of years of effort, dedication, and ambition. I like winning, helping the younger generations-and they also help me maintain my level and continue competing.
“That’s what excites me: competing with the younger ones. I still have a passion for this.”
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