Messi’s Reaction Goes Viral After Trump Brings Up Cristiano Ronaldo During White House Speech

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Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates visited the White House on Thursday, 5 March 2026, as US President Donald Trump hosted the club to celebrate their 2025 MLS Cup victory. The Argentine star stood at the center of the ceremony, joined by teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul during the event.

Inter Miami secured the MLS Cup title in December 2025 with a 3–1 win over Vancouver. Messi played a crucial role in the final, providing two assists and earning the match’s Most Valuable Player award. The White House visit followed a long-standing American tradition in which championship-winning teams meet the sitting president.

During his speech, Trump welcomed the Argentine forward with a personal remark. “It’s my privilege to say what no other president has ever said before. Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi,” he said while introducing the football legend.

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Trump Brings Cristiano Ronaldo into Conversation

The moment in the spotlight came when Trump mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo while addressing Messi. The president said his son Barron was a big admirer of the Inter Miami captain but also appreciated the Portuguese star.

“He’s a big fan of yours,” Trump said about Barron. “He thinks you’re a great person. He’s a tremendous fan of yours, as well as a gentleman named Ronaldo. Cristiano is great.”

Trump also referred to Brazilian legend Pelé while jokingly asking the Inter Miami squad who the greatest player was. Turning toward the players, he added: “I think he is,” pointing to Messi.

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The brief comparison between Messi and Ronaldo quickly sparked reactions online, with fans discussing Messi’s calm response during the speech.

Ronaldo’s Earlier Comments About Meeting Trump

Ronaldo had earlier expressed his desire to meet Trump and talk about issues of peace in the world. Last year, the Al Nassr forward revealed his desire to talk about issues of peace with the US President if they were to meet.

Ronaldo stated that he admired people who had the power to make changes in the world and claimed that Trump was such a person. Ronaldo also stated that he hoped that the world would find peace.

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Messi had earlier been invited to the White House by former President Joe Biden after being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025. Messi, however, declined the invitation due to scheduling issues, as stated in his management team’s statement.