Few rivalries in sports have gained as much attention and adoration as that between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. As the pair prepares to face off for the final time in 2024 at the Riyadh Season Cup’s ‘Last Dance,’ Ronaldo publicly expressed mutual respect rather than anger towards his long-time rival.

In reflecting on their long rivalry, Ronaldo stressed the lack of animosity between them. “Hatred? I don’t see it that way; the rivalry is finished. It was good, and the audience enjoyed it. Those who admire Cristiano Ronaldo do not have to despise Lionel Messi, and vice versa,” Ronaldo acknowledged openly, explaining the move from antagonism to mutual admiration.

Ronaldo appreciated their historical significance and emphasized how they have impacted the global landscape of football. “We’ve changed football history.” “The most important thing is that we are respected all over the world,” he added, referring to their shared heritage.

When asked about their respective paths after Europe, Ronaldo praised Messi’s accomplishments. Despite their divergent paths, the Portuguese icon highlighted their common 15-year reign of domination on the football stage.

Messi, echoing feelings of mutual rivalry, praised Ronaldo’s unwavering quest of victory, acknowledging the beauty of their compelling battle for supremacy. “We fed off each other’s rivalry because we’re both great competitors,” Messi said, highlighting the persistent character of their shared rivalry that spurred their desire to achieve.

Their thoughts encapsulate the story of two footballing titans whose competitive spirit defined a period and established new standards of performance, leaving an enduring effect on the sport. As they prepare for a possible final clash, their words reflect a mutual respect that extends beyond the field, capturing the heart of a rivalry transformed into a lasting legacy of sportsmanship and achievement.