When it comes to football, few names shine as brightly as Pelé and Ronaldinho.
These two icons have not only dazzled fans with their extraordinary skills on the pitch but have also amassed incredible fortunes through their dedication and hard work.
But have you ever wondered who led the more extravagant lifestyle?
In this article, we dive into a head-to-head comparison of their opulent lives, from mansions and cars to luxurious indulgences.
Let’s start with their residences.
Pelé called a stunning mansion in Jardim Acapulco, São Paulo, home.
This luxurious condominium is also where Neymar Jr. resides.
Pelé has given glimpses of his abode during interviews, showcasing a spacious living room adorned with art and a cozy pool table.
The outdoor area is equally impressive, featuring a sprawling swimming pool and even a soccer field for friendly matches with family and friends.
While the exact value of Pelé’s mansion remains undisclosed, properties in that upscale neighborhood average around $4 million.
In contrast, Ronaldinho boasts an 11,400-square-foot mansion in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, which was valued at approximately $9.7 million back in 2011.
With such a hefty price tag, it’s clear that Ronaldinho takes the crown in the mansion department.
Point for him!
Next up: cars.
Pelé’s automotive journey began with a classic Volkswagen Beetle, a symbol of its time.
He later owned a collection of luxury vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz 250 gifted to him upon scoring his 1,000th goal.
His taste extended to models like the Mercedes 280S, which can fetch upwards of $30,000 today.
Pelé has also been seen in a Mercedes 450SL convertible, another collectible worth over $40,000.
On the flip side, Ronaldinho’s car collection reads like a dream garage.
From a $50,000 Chevrolet Tahoe to a jaw-dropping Lamborghini Aventador priced at $450,000, his fleet is nothing short of spectacular.
He even posed next to a Bugatti Veyron, a supercar valued at around $1.9 million.
It’s evident that when it comes to cars, Ronaldinho is in a league of his own.
Another point for him!
Now, let’s talk about extravagance.
Pelé has been spotted flaunting luxurious watches, including a $30,000 Rolex Datejust and a $70,000 Rolex Day-Date.
As a Hublot ambassador, he often showcases exquisite jewelry from the brand.
He even indulged in a speedboat named Kelly Christina, after his daughter, and frequently traveled on a Bombardier Global 6000 private jet, which can cost around €75,000 for a single trip.
Ronaldinho, however, is no stranger to luxury either.
He enjoys globe-trotting and has stayed at lavish hotels like the Five Palm Jumeirah, where suites can run up to $35,000 per night.
He also loves yachting and has a penchant for high-end watches, including a stunning Jacob and Company timepiece priced at $14,800.
Ronaldinho’s taste for opulence clearly puts him ahead in this category too!
When it comes to real estate, both legends have impressive portfolios.
Pelé once owned a mansion in the Hamptons, New York, which he bought in 1979 for about $156,000 and later sold for $2.85 million.
This property boasted six bedrooms and breathtaking views of the lake, making it a prime summer getaway.
Ronaldinho, meanwhile, has a modern mansion in Rio de Janeiro filled with art and trophies.
He also owns a property in Porto Alegre, complete with two soccer fields.
Despite facing some financial issues, including debts linked to improper renovations, Ronaldinho’s extensive real estate portfolio gives him the edge here.
Point for him!
Both players have diversified their income streams beyond football.
Ronaldinho has ventured into various businesses, including a wine brand and a record label.
His social media presence is massive, with lucrative advertising deals that can net him up to $250,000 per post on Instagram.
Pelé, too, has capitalized on his fame, securing endorsements from major brands like Coca-Cola and Mastercard.
His visibility has translated into significant earnings, particularly from advertising and media appearances.
Given their similar entrepreneurial endeavors, this round ends in a tie.
Finally, let’s look at their net worth.
Ronaldinho’s earnings fluctuated throughout his career, peaking at around $10 million per season during his time at Barcelona.
Estimates suggest his fortune hovers around $100 million.
Pelé, often regarded as the highest-paid athlete during his prime, also amassed a considerable fortune.
Some estimates place his net worth between $100 million and $160 million, largely due to lucrative post-career endorsements.
Given this information, Pelé appears to have the upper hand in terms of wealth accumulation.
After tallying the scores, we find Pelé with 2 points and Ronaldinho with 5, making Ronaldinho the ultimate winner of this luxurious showdown.
However, both legends have left an indelible mark on the world of football, and their lifestyles reflect the fruits of their labor.
If you have your own thoughts on who deserves the title, feel free to share your opinions!
