Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to longtime rival Lionel Messi following the Argentine superstar’s retirement from international football, recognizing his achievements and the legacy he leaves behind after more than two decades representing his country.
The 41-year-old Portuguese forward responded to Messi’s emotional farewell message on Instagram on Wednesday, October 7, expressing his admiration for everything the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner accomplished with Argentina.
Ronaldo praised Messi’s dedication to his country and acknowledged that his achievements would remain part of football history. He also expressed his respect for the Argentine captain and sent him his best wishes.
The message attracted considerable attention because of the rivalry that defined much of their careers, particularly during their years representing Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Messi officially ended his international career on Tuesday, October 6, helping Argentina defeat Benin 3-0 in a friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The 39-year-old delivered one final memorable performance in front of more than 85,000 supporters, scoring once and providing two assists.
His goal came from the penalty spot, bringing his international total to 126 goals in 208 appearances. Messi retired as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and appearance holder.
The farewell was particularly emotional for Messi, who admitted that he already missed representing his country despite believing retirement was the appropriate decision.
In his Instagram message, the Inter Miami forward reflected on the successes and disappointments he experienced throughout his international career. He also expressed gratitude toward the clubs that allowed him to fulfill his commitments with Argentina.
Messi remembered Diego Maradona and acknowledged the importance of the legendary Argentine figure in helping establish the country’s football identity.
He also thanked his teammates and supporters for accompanying him throughout his international journey.
Ronaldo’s response carried additional significance because of the extraordinary history between the two players.
Their rivalry intensified during their years in Spain, when Ronaldo represented Real Madrid and Messi played for Barcelona.
Both consistently competed for domestic championships, Champions League titles and individual awards, establishing themselves as two of the most accomplished players in football history.
Messi won eight Ballon d’Or awards, while Ronaldo collected five. Their combined 13 awards illustrate how extensively they dominated the sport’s most prestigious individual recognition.
Despite their competitive history, Ronaldo’s message focused entirely on Messi’s achievements with Argentina.
Those accomplishments included winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, ending Argentina’s 36-year wait for another world championship.
Messi also helped Argentina win the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, along with the 2022 Finalissima against Italy. His international career additionally included an Olympic gold medal in 2008.
While Messi has concluded his international career, Ronaldo’s situation with Portugal remains unresolved.
The Al Nassr forward recently left Portugal’s national team camp following a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time.
Ronaldo has nevertheless indicated that he wants to continue representing Portugal, making his circumstances different from those of Messi, who has formally announced his international retirement.
The Portuguese star’s tribute was not the only message Messi received from a former rival.
Former Real Madrid captain Raúl González also congratulated Messi and wished him and his family well following his retirement announcement.
