Ronaldo calls Messi ‘the best I have played against’
Cristiano Ronaldo has described Lionel Messi as "the best I have played against" in an emotional message ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The Portugal captain made the remark in an interview with Piers Morgan on October 7. It marks one of his warmest public tributes to his long-time rival.
The two players have defined an era of football, sharing the Ballon d'Or stage for more than a decade. Their rivalry has been one of the sport's greatest storylines.
Ronaldo's comments come as both players prepare for what could be their final World Cup. Portugal and Argentina are among the favourites for the tournament.
Fans reacted warmly to the tribute, with many calling it a fitting farewell to a rivalry that pushed both players to extraordinary heights.
The tournament is expected to draw huge global television audiences. Ronaldo and Messi have shared football's biggest individual honours for over fifteen years, defining a generation of the sport.
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