In the annals of world football, no rivalry has shone as intensely as that between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. These two legendary icons of the beautiful game engaged in an unparalleled duel, creating a rivalry that will forever be etched in memories.
Over an incredible span of 12 seasons, they monopolized the prestigious Ballon d’Or, the highest individual honor in football. The Argentine claimed this accolade seven times, while the Portuguese secured it five times, showcasing their undisputed dominance.
However, the rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo extended beyond the number of Ballon d’Or awards. Their epic clash on the stage of La Liga elevated the renowned Clásico (pitting FC Barcelona against Real Madrid) to the status of the most anticipated and widely followed fixture on a global level. This rivalry, passionately contested on the field, proved to be devoid of any antagonism off of it. Whenever the two masters of the game crossed paths at official ceremonies, a deep mutual respect was evident, hinting at a potential improbable friendship for football enthusiasts.
Nevertheless, Lionel Messi broke the silence on this possibility in an exclusive interview with Soccer magazine in 2018. In this interview, the 2022 World Cup champion expounded on the intricate reasons that complicate the formation of a friendly bond between him and the Portuguese. “Friendship is built by spending time together and getting to know each other. We have no relationship, mainly because we only see each other at award ceremonies, and that’s the only time we talk. Everything is fine, but our lives don’t intersect very often,” Messi stated.
“La Pulga’s” words reveal that beneath the glare of intense rivalry on the field, the relentless pace of competitions and professional obligations hindered the possibility of a flourishing friendship between these two football titans. The paths of Messi and Ronaldo might cross less frequently than fans might have hoped, but their rivalry remains a captivating saga that continues to inspire future generations on and off the green pitch.
