Cristiano Ronaldo, often the recipient of immense praise himself, has shared kind words for his long-term Ballon d’Or rival, Lionel Messi.

Widely considered as the two greatest footballers in the history of the game, Ronaldo and Messi have defined the last 15 years of football with their intense rivalry, competing for both team and individual honors. Despite not being particularly close personally, their mutual respect is evident.

With a combined total of 13 Ballons d’Or, Messi holding eight of them, their careers have been marked by sensational moments of genius and numerous battles for supremacy, particularly during their time in La Liga with Real Madrid and Barcelona. Despite the intensity of their competition, their relationship remains healthy.

In a 2020 interview with RMC Sport, Ronaldo expressed admiration for Messi’s career, stating, “I really admire the career he [Messi] has had so far. It is a good rivalry that exists in football. The only common point between all the big rivalries in the sport is that they are healthy.”

Messi has reciprocated the compliments, acknowledging the strength Ronaldo brought to Real Madrid and expressing enjoyment in facing off against him during their shared time in Spain. Messi stated after Ronaldo’s move to Juventus in 2018, “It was nice to play against Cristiano; he made Madrid a stronger side.”

As both players approach the twilight of their illustrious careers, Ronaldo now plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, ending 2023 as the highest goalscorer in club football globally. Messi, on the other hand, is striving for success with Inter Miami in MLS after his move from Paris Saint-Germain, already securing the Leagues Cup championship with David Beckham’s side.