New Delhi: Lionel Messi has finally opened up about what many believe is the greatest rivalry football has ever seen- the decade-long battle between him and Cristiano Ronaldo. In a recent interview with the official Ballon d’Or account, the Inter Miami star looked back fondly at their head-to-head duel, calling it “a beautiful battle” that not only defined an era but also pushed both legends to unimaginable heights.
Messi and Ronaldo weren’t just playing the game; rather, they were rewriting the history books every time they stepped on the pitch. From 2009 to 2018, they faced off in Spain’s most high-voltage fixture, El Clasico, with Messi leading Barcelona and Ronaldo spearheading Real Madrid. Both players have spoiled the fans across the world with their magic on the field as they raised their levels with every passing season.
Ballon d’Ors, goals and a decade of dominance
The two legends share a staggering 13 Ballon d’Or awards, Messi with eight and Ronaldo with five. Messi’s dominance kicked off early, winning four straight Ballon d’Ors from 2009 to 2012 while Ronaldo bounced back in style with four in five years between 2013 and 2017.
Their numbers are almost hard to believe as they have ruled the football world while playing for their respective clubs, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. The Argentine scored 672 goals for Barcelona, collected six European Golden Shoes, and now holds the record for the most Ballon d’Or wins.
On the other hand, the Portuguese star still sits at the top of the UEFA Champions League all-time scorers list with 140 goals and has been named UEFA’s Best Player in Europe three times.
In the interview, Messi said, “Cristiano always wanted to win everything and beat everyone. It was always a battle, but in sporting terms, it was very beautiful. We pushed each other to be better because we are both extremely competitive.”
8️⃣🌕 for Messi & 5️⃣🌕 for Ronaldo.
Messi reflects on his immense rivalry with Ronaldo for the Ballon d’Or. Between 2008 and 2023, they won the trophy 13 times! What is your favourite memory of the battle between the two most successful Ballon d’Or winners?#ballondor pic.twitter.com/9CVkK1pqwn
— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) May 17, 2025
An era that may never return
The rivalry between the two not just captivated the fans, rather it also redefined what it means to be consistent at the highest level, inspiring many across the globe. Messi admitted that the hardest part was not reaching the top, but staying there. “We did that for many years,” he said, reflecting on the sustained excellence both players managed to maintain.
As time moves on, so does football. The 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist marked a significant change, with neither Messi nor Ronaldo among the nominees for the first time since 2003. Both the legends are playing now outside of Europe, Messi for the MLS side Inter Miami, while Ronaldo is in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Nassr.
Both legends have entered the final chapters of their careers, but still, for an entire generation of fans Messi-Ronaldo rivalry was more than just stats and trophies. It was a weekly masterclass, a constant debate, and above all, a joy to watch.
Messi and Ronaldo have established a legacy in the sports world; those who got the chance to watch them at their prime must consider themselves lucky. And now, with the Argentine legend looking back on it with admiration and respect, the world is reminded of just how special that time was.
Lionel Messi reflects on his legendary rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo calling it a ‘beautiful battle’ that pushed both to footballing greatness to reach new heights. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
