Cristiano Ronaldo has once again seized the spotlight—not with a goal, but with a pen. Amid swirling speculation about his future, the Portuguese superstar has officially signed a new two-year contract with Al-Nassr, keeping him at the Saudi club until 2027. The announcement came with characteristic flair: a teaser video titled “The Story continues,” showing Ronaldo strolling along a beach before declaring, “Al Nassr forever.”
This symbolic moment was later confirmed via Al-Nassr’s official channels, putting to rest rumors that Ronaldo was eyeing a move elsewhere, particularly ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
While the announcement itself was dramatic, the real fireworks came with the financial details. According to reports, Ronaldo’s new contract is now the most lucrative in world soccer. His previous deal with Al-Nassr, inked in late 2022, was already valued at $217 million annually, but this new agreement has shattered that figure.
Deal unlike any other
As part of the extension, Ronaldo will now earn a staggering €400 million per year, which converts to approximately $434 million annually. Here’s a breakdown of what that means in raw numbers:
- Monthly: €33.34M / $36.2M
- Weekly: €7.6M / $8.27M
- Daily: €1.1M / $1.2M
- Hourly: €46,300 / $50,300
- Per Minute: €772 / $840
- Per Second: €13 / $14.13
Marca reported that the deal may also include a minority ownership stake in Al-Nassr, underlining Ronaldo’s pivotal role in the club’s vision. It’s a move that would not only give him influence over signings but also align with his long-term soccer ambitions.
Star still shining
At 40 years old, Ronaldo’s hunger for success hasn’t dimmed. In 105 appearances for Al-Nassr, he has scored 93 goals, including 25 in the most recent Saudi Pro League season, making him the league’s top scorer. Yet, despite his brilliance, Al-Nassr finished third and again ended the campaign without a major title.
After the season’s final game, Ronaldo sparked speculation with a cryptic Instagram post: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written.” But his latest extension suggests he’s not done writing new chapters—both on the field and possibly off it, as an investor or executive.
The face of a soccer evolution
Ronaldo was the first major European star to sign with a Saudi club, and his presence has radically transformed the Saudi Pro League. Since his arrival, players like Karim Benzema and Neymar have followed suit, helping Saudi Arabia shift the epicenter of global soccer interest.
“Ronaldo’s presence is a key factor in developing the Saudi league in the last two years and a half,” a source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) told AFP. “He opens the door for elite and young players to come to Saudi Arabia.”
With Saudi Arabia set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo’s continuing involvement feels strategic. His name, aura, and influence lend legitimacy to the country’s long-term soccer ambitions. He may not have lifted silverware with Al-Nassr yet, but his impact is arguably even more significant.
