Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly expressed his respect for longtime rival Lionel Messi after the Argentine’s emotional departure from international football.
On Tuesday night, Messi played his last match for Argentina, scoring one goal and setting up two more in a 3-0 friendly win over Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old, often considered one of the greatest players in football history, called the occasion “the saddest day of my career” after representing his country for more than two decades.
Commenting on Messi’s Instagram post on Wednesday marking the end of his international journey, Ronaldo wrote, “Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will live on forever. You have all my respect for everything you’ve achieved with Argentina. A hug.”
The Portuguese star’s words were widely covered on Wednesday, including by the Spanish newspaper Marca, which pointed out that mutual respect has long existed between the two icons despite their intense on-pitch rivalry lasting more than 15 years.
Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team in late August, shortly after the side’s 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain. He pointed to the emotional and physical toll of the tournament, which coincided with the illness and later death of his father, Jorge Messi, as reasons behind his decision.
Messi ended his international career with a record 208 appearances and 126 goals for Argentina, having captained the team to the 2022 World Cup title as well as Copa América triumphs.
Ronaldo and Messi have often exchanged words of admiration in recent years, including Ronaldo’s message of support after the death of Messi’s father earlier this year.
Their latest exchange comes as both players, now in the later stages of their careers, continue to attract global attention, Messi with Inter Miami and Ronaldo with Al-Nassr.
The tribute highlights a shared recognition of extraordinary careers defined by excellence, longevity, and national service.
