Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football has drawn a respectful tribute from his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward took to social media on Wednesday to honor the Argentine icon after Messi announced his departure from the national team.
Ronaldo’s message came in response to an emotional Instagram post by Messi, who reflected on his final match against Benin the previous day at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium. “Leo, after so many years of defending your country, you’ve made history that will last forever,” Ronaldo wrote. “I have the utmost respect for what you’ve accomplished with Argentina.” He signed off with a single word: “A hug”.
The 39-year-old Messi captained Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024 before stepping down following a runner-up finish in the recent tournament final against Spain. In his farewell address, Messi expressed gratitude for the journey, stating, “Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I’m making the right decision.”
Messi also paid homage to his late compatriot Diego Maradona, acknowledging the former legend’s influence both in life and from heaven. He thanked the clubs that allowed him to prioritize international duty, adding, “I am grateful. I love you all very much; I’m going to miss you, and I will always thank you for having been by our side, by my side.”
During his final appearance, Messi scored Argentina’s third goal in a 3-0 victory and assisted the other two in front of 85,000 spectators. A banner reading “Ronaldo is Cristiano [Christian], but Messi is God” was displayed by fans during the event.
The careers of Messi and Ronaldo have overlapped for over 15 years, marked by a fierce rivalry that dominated global football. The duo claimed 13 Ballon d’Or awards between them, including nine consecutive years from 2008 to 2016 while facing each other in Spanish club football—Messi at Barcelona and Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
At 41, Ronaldo remains active with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr. His acknowledgment of Messi’s milestone arrived on the same day he apologized for a recent controversy involving his departure from the Portuguese national team camp. It remains uncertain whether he will return to the Portugal squad.
The two stars last competed against each other in January 2023 during an exhibition match in Saudi Arabia, where both found the net. That encounter served as one of the few direct meetings between the legends in recent years, highlighting a rivalry that has defined an era of soccer history.
That Maradona tribute gave me chills. Messi carrying on that legacy is truly special to see.
I wish we had more of these genuine moments. The 2023 friendly was one of the few times they actually played each other lately.
Wait, Ronaldo is 41 and still playing? Meanwhile Messi just hung up his boots at 39!
What a beautiful end to the greatest rivalry in football history. Respect is everything here.