It’s a question that divides generations, sparks social media wars, and floods comment sections with passion: Is Cristiano Ronaldo the real GOAT? While football greatness can’t be pinned down to a single match, there’s one night that continues to echo across stadiums, screens, and highlight reels—the epic 2019 Champions League comeback against Atlético Madrid.

March 12, 2019. Juventus Stadium.
Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Juventus needed a miracle. Enter Cristiano Ronaldo, a man born for moments where others shrink. What followed was a performance so complete, so ferociously determined, that even his staunchest critics were left stunned. With a towering header, a clinical finish, and a nerves-of-steel penalty, Ronaldo netted a hat-trick to send Juve through with a 3-2 aggregate victory. That night, he didn’t just win a game—he carried an entire team and silenced an entire city.

It wasn’t just the goals—it was the emotion, the intensity, the pure willpower on display. Ronaldo, who has done it in England, Spain, Italy, and internationally with Portugal, showcased once again why many call him the ultimate big-game player. He has scored in three UEFA Champions League finals and is the all-time leading scorer in the competition, with over 140 goals.

The numbers only tell half the story. It’s the consistency, the adaptability, and the mindset that separates him. From his early days dazzling at Manchester United to his record-breaking spells at Real Madrid—where he won four Champions League titles in five years—Ronaldo has defined an era of football greatness. He helped Portugal win their first-ever major trophy at Euro 2016, even after being subbed off injured in the final, where he transformed into an emotional, animated touchline leader.

But is he the GOAT (Greatest of All Time)? That’s where the debate sharpens. Lionel Messi, his closest rival, is often praised for his artistry and playmaking magic. Yet Ronaldo brings a different kind of dominance—more gladiator than magician. His physique, mentality, and sheer hunger to win make him the most relentless footballer the world has seen.

Some say it’s about World Cup trophies, others about individual stats, and many argue it’s about how players define generations. If GOAT means the most complete goal scorer, the most clutch performer, and the most globally iconic athlete, then yes—Cristiano Ronaldo has a rightful claim to the title.

As he continues to play into his late 30s with unmatched fitness and drive—currently starring for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia—Ronaldo’s legacy remains intact. Whether you’re on Team CR7 or not, there’s no denying: he’s already immortal in football history.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the dynamic guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has seen his net worth soar in tandem with his basketball career. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at approximately $75 million, a testament to his prowess both on and off the court.

Gilgeous-Alexander‘s financial ascent is anchored by his substantial NBA earnings. In August 2021, he signed a five-year, $179 million rookie max extension with the Thunder, which commenced in the 2023–24 season. This contract pays him between $35 million and $42 million annually, depending on bonuses and salary cap fluctuations.

Beyond his salary, Gilgeous-Alexander has secured lucrative endorsement deals that bolster his income. Notably, he inked a multi-year extension with Converse in 2024, estimated at $15 million annually. His endorsement portfolio also includes partnerships with AT&T and Canada Goose, contributing to an estimated $18 million in annual endorsement earnings.

In addition to his basketball and endorsement earnings, Gilgeous-Alexander has invested in real estate. In 2023, he purchased a multi-million-dollar mansion in the Oklahoma City area, complete with a gym, home theater, and indoor basketball court. There are also reports of him investing in properties in Canada and California, signaling a strategic approach to wealth management.

Looking ahead, Gilgeous-Alexander‘s financial trajectory appears poised for further growth. Following his MVP season in 2025, he became eligible for a “supermax” contract extension with the Thunder, valued at four years and $293.4 million, averaging approximately $73.3 million per year. If he opts to wait until 2026, he could sign a five-year deal worth $379 million.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey from a promising draft pick to an NBA superstar underscores his dedication and talent. His financial success mirrors his on-court achievements, positioning him as one of the league’s most influential and affluent players.

Chet Holmgren, the promising center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has made notable strides both on and off the basketball court. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at approximately $5 million, a testament to his burgeoning NBA career and marketability.

Holmgren‘s financial ascent began with his rookie-scale contract, a four-year deal worth nearly $45 million, fully guaranteed. For the 2024–25 NBA season, he is earning $10.88 million, with a projected increase to $13.73 million in the 2025–26 season. By the end of his current contract, Holmgren will have accumulated close to $45 million in NBA salary alone.

Beyond his on-court earnings, Holmgren has secured endorsement deals with prominent brands such as Philips Norelco, Ethika, Google Pixel, and Neiman Marcus. These partnerships span grooming, fashion, technology, and luxury sectors, highlighting his broad appeal and strategic brand alignment.

Holmgren‘s journey from a top recruit at Gonzaga to a key player for the Thunder underscores his dedication and potential. With his continued development and marketability, Holmgren is poised for further financial growth and a lasting impact in the NBA.