Cristiano Ronaldo says he and Lionel Messi “changed the history of football” but their rivalry is now “gone”.Widely regarded as all-time greats, they often faced each other in Spain’s La Liga with Real Madrid and Barcelona. “We are respected all over the world, that’s the most important thing,” Ronaldo said. Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo has been left off the shortlist for the first time since 2003, while Messi could win it for the eighth time. “He makes his way, I make mine. He’s done well, from what I’ve seen. It’s about continuing, the legacy continues,” added 38-year-old Ronaldo, who now plays in Saudi Arabia for Al-Nassr.
When asked whether their rivalry included animosity, he responded, “Those who appreciate Cristiano Ronaldo don’t have to detest Messi. I don’t perceive the competition in that way. “The conflict is over. It was good, and the audience approved. Although I wouldn’t call us friends, after 15 years of performing together, we were professional colleagues who respected one another. The record-breaking duo has combined to win several of the most prestigious awards available in the sport.
With 451 goals in 438 games, Ronaldo holds the all-time scoring record for Real Madrid. During his nine-year stay at the Bernabeu, he also won 16 trophies with the club, including four Champions Leagues, two La Liga championships, and two Copas del Rey. Messi now owns the all-time appearance and goal scoring records for Barcelona with 674 goals in 781 games for Inter Miami in the United States. With the team, the 36-year-old won 35 trophies, including 10 La Liga championships, four Champions League medals, and seven Copa del Reys. On the international level, Messi and Argentina won the 2022 World Cup and the Copa America, while Portugal and Ronaldo triumphed in the European Championship and the Nations League.
The most recent matchup between the two took place in January, when Messi defeated Ronaldo’s Riyadh Season XI 5-4 while playing for Paris St-Germain at the moment. The two have played one other 36 times on the field.
- Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, two of the greatest footballers of all time, have acknowledged their impact on the history of football and the end of their intense rivalry. Here are some key points from their recent statements:
Historical Impact: Ronaldo and Messi are aware of the significant impact they have had on the world of football. Their contributions and successes have brought them respect and acclaim on a worldwide scale.
Respect and Professionalism: Despite their fierce on-field rivalry during their time in La Liga, Ronaldo emphasizes the mutual respect they have for each other as professional colleagues. He mentions that they were not friends but respected each other after 15 years of competing together.
Changing the Legacy: Ronaldo acknowledges that both he and Messi are continuing their football legacies in their own ways. Even though he currently competes for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he acknowledges Messi’s accomplishment and declares his intention to continue striving for greatness in his career.
Ballon d’Or: Ronaldo mentions that he has been left off the Ballon d’Or shortlist for the first time since 2003, while Messi could potentially win it for the eighth time. This shows their competitiveness for renowned honors and individual brilliance.
Club Achievements: Ronaldo highlights his impressive record at Real Madrid, including holding the all-time scoring record and winning numerous trophies, including Champions League titles. Messi’s exploits at Barcelona, where he established records for appearances and goals and amassed a sizable collection of trophies, are also remarkable.
International Success: Both Ronaldo and Messi have achieved success at the international level, with Messi and Argentina winning the 2022 World Cup and the Copa America, while Ronaldo and Portugal triumphed in the European Championship and the Nations League.
Recent Matchup: The most recent match between Ronaldo and Messi took place in January, with Messi’s team defeating Ronaldo’s Riyadh Season XI 5-4. They have faced each other 36 times on the field over the years.
Discussion about this post