Cristiano Ronaldo pays tribute to Messi: 'Your story will remain forever'

Cristiano Ronaldo took the time to pay tribute to his long-time rival Lionel Messi following the latter's final international match. Messi concluded a 21-year international career with a goal and two assists as Argentina defeated Benin in a friendly match in Buenos Aires. The Argentine star, who played his 208th and final game for La Albiceleste, was supported by over 85,000 fans in the Monumental stadium.

Ronaldo, in response to one of Messi's Instagram posts, expressed his admiration for the legendary player, saying: "Leo, so many years representing your country and a story that will remain forever. All my respect for what you achieved with Argentina. A hug." The comment received over six million likes. The ongoing debate about who is the greater player between the two has persisted for the past two decades, but Ronaldo's message highlighted the deep respect he holds for Messi.

Together, Ronaldo and Messi have shared 13 Ballon d'Or awards, with Messi leading in the count with eight titles to Ronaldo's five. Messi's goal from the penalty spot against Benin was his 126th in Argentina's iconic sky-blue-and-white jerseys. The footballer is the record scorer and most-capped player for Argentina, having also won the World Cup in 2022 along with the Copa America in 2021 and 2024.

In a more personal note, Ronaldo's own international career with Portugal came into question earlier in the week when the 41-year-old released a lengthy statement. The statement confirmed that Ronaldo was not retiring from international football and remained available for selection despite walking out on Portugal's training camp ahead of their match against Denmark.