Messi Reflects on Iconic Rivalry with Ronaldo

It's the most famous rivalry in modern football, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Now the Argentine football star speaks openly in an interview about what he considers "a wonderful time", CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

For years, Lionel Messi (and Cristiano Ronaldo) fought a duel at the highest level, thus shaping football. In an interview with the official X channel of the Ballon d'Or, Messi now speaks openly about his relationship with the Portuguese.

"It was always a struggle," admits the Argentine superstar.

"From a sporting point of view, it was very nice. We pushed each other to always be better, because we are both very ambitious. He always wanted to win everything - and so did I. It was a wonderful time for us and for all the people who love football," the Argentine striker stressed.

The dominance of these two extraordinary players is evident not only in the Spanish Primera Division or the Champions League, but above all in the fight for the Ballon d'Or. From 2008 to 2017, the prestigious award went exclusively to one of the two. Messi won the award a total of eight times, Ronaldo five times.

"What we have achieved over such a long period of time deserves the utmost respect. Because, as the saying goes, it's easy to reach the top - the hard part is staying there," says Messi.

The two football legends have since faded from the spotlight and now play outside Europe. Messi in the American MLS, Ronaldo with Saudi club Al-Nassr.

Although the two will probably never meet again in any league, there could still be a final duel – at the 2026 World Cup. Messi is already booked for the tournament with Argentina, while Ronaldo has yet to qualify with Portugal.