Frank Christian
In January 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia grabbed significant attention for several reasons.
Having spent his entire football career in Europe, the 39-year-old Portuguese forward is now playing in Asia, where many speculate he may start the final phase of his career.
Ronaldo’s choice to join Al Nassr was influenced by various factors, including an astonishing offer from the club. Despite being among the wealthiest footballers globally, this Saudi contract has taken his earnings to new heights.
Ronaldo’s Earnings in Saudi Arabia
Reports indicate that Ronaldo’s salary with Al Nassr is approximately $213 million (£173 million) per year.
A considerable portion of this amount stems not just from his on-field performance but also from his commercial deals and image rights, which reportedly contribute over half of his total income in Saudi Arabia.
It was anticipated that Saudi Arabia might contribute to Ronaldo’s salary as part of their efforts to co-host the 2030 World Cup, although Al Nassr has denied this involvement.
Ronaldo’s enormous salary can be broken down as follows:
- Monthly: $17.75 million
- Weekly: $4.43 million
- Daily: $633,928
- Hourly: $24,413
- Per minute: $406.88
- Per second: $6.78
Contract Duration with Al Nassr
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr lasts two and a half years, having started in January 2023.
This arrangement allows him to play in Saudi Arabia until mid-2025, when he will be 40 years old, an age at which he has suggested he might contemplate retirement.
If he were to take on a role as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s World Cup bid, he may be bound to the country beyond his playing contract depending on how the bid evolves.
Is Ronaldo the Highest-Earning Athlete?
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr represents the highest annual salary recorded in sports history.
While Lionel Messi’s former contract with PSG initially paid him more overall than Ronaldo’s, his subsequent move to MLS with Inter Miami has changed that, with Ronaldo’s yearly earnings surpassing Messi’s.
Following these two football legends, NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes holds the next highest contract, a 10-year deal worth $503 million.
Here’s Cristiano Ronaldo with Al Nassr shirt after contract signed until June 2025 #Ronaldo
Agreement valid for two years and half;
Total salary will be close to €200m per year, but this includes commercial deal.
It’s the biggest salary ever in football. pic.twitter.com/ZnOg8lY6Wb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 30, 2022
Are There Special Clauses in Ronaldo’s Contract?
Given the vast amount of money involved, Ronaldo’s contract reportedly contains several clauses.
While no specifics have been confirmed and rumors have been quickly denied, some believed there might be an option for Ronaldo to join Saudi-owned Newcastle United on loan if they qualified for the UEFA Champions League.
Although the connection seemed logical, Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe stated there was no truth to these rumors, and Ronaldo himself mentioned he was done with European football upon his unveiling by Al Nassr.
Additionally, rumors suggested Ronaldo’s contract might involve promoting Saudi Arabia’s bid to co-host the 2030 World Cup. However, Al Nassr has dismissed these claims.
“Al Nassr FC would like to clarify that contrary to news reports, Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr does not entail commitments to any World Cup bids,” a club statement emphasized. “His main focus is on Al Nassr and to work with his teammates to help the club achieve success.”
Cristiano Ronaldo unveiled by Al Nassr: ‘This contract is unique, but I’m unique’
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo said his ‘work is done’ in Europe, adding that he is relishing new challenges after being unveiled as a player of Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr on Tuesday.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Net Worth
As Ronaldo secures lucrative final years on the field, his net worth is anticipated to rise.
Various estimates suggest that the Portuguese star is worth around $500 million (£363 million).
Forbes reported Ronaldo made $115 million (£93 million) in the year 2022 alone — a figure expected to increase in 2023 and 2024 due to his contract with Al Nassr.
