Football icon Lionel Messi has offered fresh insights into his long-standing rivalry with fellow superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing that while the two are not friends, mutual respect has always defined their relationship.
In a recent interview, Messi praised Ronaldo’s enduring legacy and competitive spirit, describing him as a relentless athlete who is still performing at the highest level.
“I have a lot of respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, and for the career he’s had and continues to have. He is still competing at the highest level,” Messi said.
The Argentine legend, who has shared the global football spotlight with Ronaldo for over a decade, clarified that their competition has always been limited to the pitch, with no personal animosity.
“The competition with him was on the pitch… Each of us wanted to do the best for our team. Everything stayed on the pitch,” he added.
Despite frequent comparisons and media-fueled narratives of a bitter rivalry, Messi explained that off the field, their relationship has always been cordial—though not close.
“Off the pitch, we are two normal guys. We’re not friends because we don’t spend time together, but we’ve always treated each other with a lot of respect.”
