Cristiano Ronaldo has downplayed long-standing rivalry narratives by expressing affection for Lionel Messi, calling their relationship one built on mutual respect.
The two global icons dominated world football for over a decade, amassing a combined 13 Ballon d’Or titles, Messi with eight and Ronaldo with five, and shaping a generational debate over the sport’s greatest player.
Now in the twilight of their careers, Messi at Inter Miami and Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, the Portuguese forward reflected on their unique bond.
Speaking to reporters, Ronaldo revealed, “Of course I have affection for Messi. We’ve been on the stage together for 15 years.
“I used to translate English for him at galas because he didn’t speak it well. He always treated me well and respected me.”
Their rivalry, while fierce on the pitch, has remained professional off it.
With both players transitioning to leagues outside Europe, the personal respect between them now appears more evident.
Ronaldo is set to feature for Portugal in their UEFA Nations League clash against Spain on Sunday, while Messi will lead Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Wednesday.
