Cristiano Ronaldo’s Move to Al Nassr: A New Chapter in His Legendary Career
Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al Nassr in January 2023 sent shockwaves through the football world. After an illustrious career spent predominantly in Europe, the 39-year-old Portuguese superstar made the bold decision to continue his journey in Saudi Arabia. This move raised eyebrows for various reasons, from the financial implications to the potential impact on his legacy.
The Allure of Al Nassr
Ronaldo’s decision to join Al Nassr was undoubtedly influenced by the club’s staggering financial offer. While he was already among the wealthiest athletes globally, the contract he signed in Saudi Arabia catapulted him into a financial stratosphere all his own. Reports suggest that Ronaldo’s annual salary with Al Nassr is around $213 million (£173 million), a figure that includes not only his playing salary but also substantial earnings from image rights and commercial deals.
Salary Breakdown: The Numbers Speak Volumes
To put Ronaldo’s earnings into perspective, his salary translates to approximately:
- Monthly: $17.75 million
- Weekly: $4.43 million
- Daily: $633,928
- Hourly: $24,413
- Per Minute: $406.88
- Per Second: $6.78
These figures make him the highest-paid player in sports history, surpassing even the likes of Lionel Messi and NFL star Patrick Mahomes. While Messi’s previous contract with PSG was lucrative, Ronaldo’s yearly wage eclipses anything Messi currently earns, especially following Messi’s move to Inter Miami.
Contract Duration and Future Prospects
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is set for two and a half years, meaning he will be with the club until mid-2025. By that time, he will be 40 years old, an age at which he has previously hinted he might consider retirement. However, there are speculations that if he serves as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s bid to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Greece and Egypt, he could remain tied to the country even longer.
The Richest Player in Sports?
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is not just a record in football; it stands as the richest in sports history. While Messi’s earnings over time were initially higher, Ronaldo’s current deal has set a new benchmark. Following these two football icons, NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes holds the next richest contract, valued at $503 million over ten years.
Contract Clauses: What’s in the Fine Print?
Given the astronomical sum involved, there are rumors of various clauses in Ronaldo’s contract. Although many of these have been denied, speculation persists. One of the more intriguing rumors suggested that Ronaldo could be loaned to Saudi-owned Newcastle United if they qualified for the UEFA Champions League. However, club manager Eddie Howe dismissed these claims, and Ronaldo himself stated he was done with European football upon joining Al Nassr.
Another widely discussed clause involved promoting Saudi Arabia’s World Cup bid. However, Al Nassr has publicly clarified that Ronaldo’s contract does not entail any commitments to World Cup promotions, emphasizing that his primary focus is on helping the club succeed.
Ronaldo’s Growing Net Worth
With his lucrative contract and ongoing commercial ventures, Ronaldo’s net worth is projected to continue its upward trajectory. Estimates suggest that his net worth is around $500 million (£363 million). Forbes reported that he earned $115 million (£93 million) in 2022 alone, a figure that is likely to have increased significantly due to his Al Nassr deal.
A New Era in Saudi Football
Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia marks a significant moment not just for his career but also for the region’s football landscape. His presence is expected to elevate the profile of the Saudi Pro League and attract more international attention to the sport in the country. As he continues to compete at a high level, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this chapter unfolds in the storied career of one of football’s greatest legends.