Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has paid a warm public tribute to Argentina captain Lionel Messi, praising his years of service to his country.
“Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will live on forever and you have all my respect for everything you’ve achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo commented.
Respect between rivals
The message is a rare public display of admiration between the two players, whose rivalry has defined world football for nearly two decades. Ronaldo addressed Messi by his nickname “Leo” and ended with a hug, a friendly sign-off.
Ronaldo singled out Messi’s commitment to the national team, saying he had spent “so many years defending” Argentina’s colours, and described his story as one that “will live on forever.”
Messi’s Argentina story
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history, led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, and has also won the Copa America with the national team. He now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, plays for Saudi side Al Nassr.
The tribute drew attention from fans and followers of both players.
