Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi (X and AP)
Cristiano Ronaldo says his rivalry with Lionel Messi is now ‘gone’ but insisted that the pair are not ‘friends’ either as they continue to score goals for fun
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that his ‘rivalry’ with Lionel Messi is now ‘gone’ now that the two play in different countries, however, he insisted that the duo are not ‘friends’ either.
Having dominated the world of football for more than two decades, Ronaldo and Messi are now in the twilights of their respective careers, while the Portuguese is playing in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr, Messi recently joined Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Inter Miami.
The Argentine also won the FIFA World Cup 2022 and will be in the front seat to win the Ballon d’Or, which would be his eighth title, however, Ronaldo, 38 was left out of the 30-man shortlist for the coveted prize for the first time since 2003.
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During a recent interview, Ronaldo talked in depth about the iconic rivalry he shared with Messi when they played for Real Madrid and Barcelona at the peak of their powers.
“We are respected all over the world, that’s the most important thing,” said Ronaldo.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner added, “He makes his way, I make mine. He’s done well, from what I’ve seen. It’s about continuing, the legacy continues.”
Ronaldo also schooled the fans for their hatred, urging them to respect both the two ‘GOATS’.
“Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don’t have to hate Messi. I don’t see the rivalry like that. The rivalry is gone. It was good, the spectators liked it. We shared the stage for 15 years and ended up being, I’m not saying friends, but we are professional colleagues and we respect each other,” stated the Al Nassr superstar.
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The last time Messi and Ronaldo faced off against each other was during a friendly between Paris Saint-Germain and Riyadh’s Season XI when Messi was still at PSG as they won 5-4.
Since then, the Argentine headed to the USA but both the legendary forwards continue to score goals for fun, Messi has scored 11 times in 11 games with an assist to his name for his new club, whereas Ronaldo has netted 20 times in 24 appearances for Al Nassr till date.