After the transfer of the Portuguese footballer to Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo's wealth surpassed that of Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have long been not only football icons but also among the richest athletes in the world.
According to a report by Lent.az, citing foreign media, it has become clear which of the two legendary players has more wealth on the eve of the World Championship.
According to Forbes' financial calculations, Ronaldo's total wealth is currently around $1.4 billion, while Messi's is around $1.2 billion.
Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer to Saudi Arabia's "Al-Nasr" club and his estimated earnings of around $178 million per year, plus bonuses, have significantly increased his income.
In addition, the striker earns significant income from advertising contracts with well-known global companies and the development of his own CR7 brand.
Lionel Messi also earns significant income outside of football.
The Argentine footballer has a lifetime contract with Adidas and collaborates with several international brands, earning tens of millions of pounds per year.
Despite the financial competition, both players continue to make history in world football.
In the 2026 World Cup, Ronaldo will try to win his first major international trophy,
while Messi will have a chance to defend his title won in Qatar.