First billionaire footballers in World Cup history: Ronaldo leads Messi by $100M
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Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have both surpassed the billion-dollar net worth mark ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo currently holds a $100 million lead over Messi, driven by his lucrative Saudi Pro League contract and extensive commercial ventures.
Why it matters
This illustrates the extreme commercialization of modern sports and the transformation of top athletes into global business entities.
Add Pulse Sports as a preferred source on Google Add Pulse Sports as a preferred source on Google Photo Credits: IMAGO The football icons have both crossed the billion-dollar mark ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ronaldo maintaining a narrow financial advantage over his longtime rival. Advertisement The greatest rivalry in football history is set to reach another landmark moment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The article relies on financial data from Forbes and reports on the athletes' wealth without bias.
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