Lionel Messi has clarified the nature of his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that while they are not friends, they have always shown each other mutual respect.
In discussing their rivalry, Messi said that “we are not friends, but we have always treated each other with a lot of respect.”
This insight into their dynamic comes as Messi continues to play for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo is currently with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
Recently, Messi played a crucial role in securing Inter Miami’s first victory in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, scoring a remarkable free kick to lead his team to a 2-1 win over FC Porto.
After the match, reporters inquired about Messi’s views on Ronaldo and their longstanding rivalry.
He expressed: “I have great respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo and for the career he has had and continues to have. He is still competing at the highest level.
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“The rivalry was always on the field, as we both aimed to do our best for our teams. Everything remained on the pitch.
“Off the field, we are just two regular guys. We’re not friends since we don’t spend time together, but we’ve always treated each other with a lot of respect.”
Messi and Ronaldo have had a legendary rivalry for over 15 years, with Messi winning eight Ballon d’Or awards and Ronaldo five.
In a 2017 interview, Messi remarked that “I don’t know if we will be friends. Friendship develops through spending time together and getting to know one another.
“We don’t have a relationship, mainly because we only see each other at award ceremonies, which is the only time we talk. Everything is fine, but our lives don’t intersect very often.”
