/industry-wired/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/04/2024-12-04t130344212z-iw-new.png)
/industry-wired/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/04/2024-12-04t130332454z-iw-new.jpg)
/industry-wired/media/media_files/2025/06/09/cimohVkHxbpfU1GWufri.jpg)
/industry-wired/media/media_files/2025/06/09/cimohVkHxbpfU1GWufri.jpg)
A Footballing Legacy: Ronaldo's Thoughts on Rivalry and Respect As He Talks about Messi and Argentina
Before Portugal's UEFA Nations League final against Spain this past weekend in Munich, Cristiano Ronaldo threw a revealing press conference wherein he spoke candidly about the relation he has shared over the years with his longtime rival while mercifully also professing the love that he harbors for Argentina.
The words, which have triggered quite a stir across the world's football community, gave an extremely rare insight into the mutual respect that seems to have existed between one of the most important individual rivalries ever in the realm of sport.
Ronaldo's Surprise: ‘Special Affection’
Ronaldo, who is now 40, was asked by an Argentinian journalist about whether he thinks that one day he will be in the same dressing room going down to battle with Messi. The Portuguese superstar admitted it would be "very difficult" at this stage of their careers but did not completely shut the door, as he said, "You never know; time is there. I'm 40 years old, but never say never."
Most importantly, he spoke about his connection with Argentina. "You know that I have a lot of affection for Argentina. My wife is Argentine, so how can I not have affection? It's very special," he stated, referring to Georgina Rodríguez, his long-time partner.
He then added, "There have even been times when I was invited to play the Club World Cup with Argentine teams. I have not gone to Argentina yet, and I would really love to. I have a lot of affection for Argentinians."
Ronaldo: Messi ‘Always Respected Me,’ Recalls Translating at Galas
The conversation naturally turned to Lionel Messi, the player that has shared the sporting limelight with Ronaldo for over 15 years, claiming an unprecedented 13 Ballon d'Or awards between them.
Ronaldo insisted that behind the fierce rivalry on the pitch, especially in the heyday of their respective Real Madrid and Barcelona days, lay genuine respect.
"I have affection for Messi, although we have been rivals for many years," Ronaldo asserted. "As I have said in several interviews, we were on stage for 15 years. I translated for him at the galas."
That revelation that he would step in for Messi at award ceremonies when the Argentine was still less comfortable speaking English provided a very touching behind-the-scenes glimpse of their bond at a professional level. "He always treated me well and respected me a lot, just like I respected him," Ronaldo concluded.
This statement echoes some of the previous remarks made by the two players, who have always downplayed any bitterness between each other and have instead emphasized the healthy competition that forced the other to greater heights.
Looking Ahead: Are these Rivals Forging Football's Ultimate Bond
In many respects, their rivalry has been more or less contained to the field and the amassing of collective and individual honors. Off the field, however, there seems to be some quiet understanding and appreciation for the other's unmatched talents.
Ronaldo's remarks are made as the two legends, who are currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, respectively, are gradually coming to the end of their illustrious careers.
Ronaldo's recent comments only served to remind us of the legacy they continue to create—a legacy that goes beyond goals and trophies to include mutual respect and a brotherhood that was forged beyond their rivals' intense competition during their era, even though a true club reunion seems impossible forever.
In fact, their relationship appears to be proof that football history can be shaped by even the most ferocious rivals who show mutual respect.