The Economic Times

Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Who leads the net worth race in 2026? Inside the billion-dollar rivalry

Football titans Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have both entered the billionaire club, showcasing their immense global influence beyond the pitch. Ronaldo, representing Portugal, holds a slight financial lead with an estimated $1.2 billion net worth. Messi, leading Argentina, is close behind at $1.1 billion, leveraging his Inter Miami move and strategic investments.