Barcelona and Argentina legend, Lionel Messi has opened up on his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, tagging it as ‘beautiful’.
Messi and Ronaldo are widely regarded among the best footballers in the history of the sport.
Their rivalry which has a combined 13 Ballon d’Ors, has shaped the game and an entire generation, as both players have been models for new generations.
Dating from 2008, the era-defining rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo started, with Messi at Barcelona and Ronaldo at Manchester United.
However, the Portuguese switch to Real Madrid has seen the rivalry grown to an elite one between both legends.
In Spain, both players won numerous titles and scored an unfathomable number of goals for their respective clubs (Messi 666, Ronaldo 450).
Still, the battle between the two remained respectful and the World Cup winner spoke fondly of the time spent competing with Ronaldo. “It was always a battle,” Messi said to the Official Ballon d’Or X account.
“In sporting terms, it was very beautiful. We pushed each other to be better because we are both extremely competitive.
“He always wanted to win everything, and so did I. It was a beautiful time for us and for people who love football.”
Messi also included the Portuguese, Real Madrid and Manchester United legend among footballers who he deems to be world-class.
Others include former teammates duo, Luis Suarez and Xavi, Kylian Mbappe, Sergio Ramos, and also Karim Benzema.
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