Ronaldo Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Farewell

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to longtime rival Lionel Messi following the Argentine forward’s emotional farewell from international football.

Messi made his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring once and providing two assists as the World Cup holders defeated Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old ended his 21-year international career with a record 208 appearances and 126 goals for Argentina.

Following the match, Messi shared an emotional message on social media, saying he already missed wearing Argentina’s blue and white and was confident he had made the right decision to step away from international football.

Ronaldo responded to Messi’s post with a message recognising his contribution to the Argentine national team.

“Leo, so many years defending your country and a history that will last forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo wrote.

Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title and helped the team win the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 Finalissima.

His final international appearance was marked by an emotional farewell in front of more than 85,000 supporters at the Monumental Stadium.

The occasion brought renewed attention to the long-running rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, who dominated world football for more than a decade while representing Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively.

Despite their competition for individual honours and their contrasting international careers, both players have repeatedly expressed respect for each other.

Ronaldo, 41, has won five Ballon d’Or awards, while Messi has won the honour a record eight times.

Messi will now continue his club career with Inter Miami, while Ronaldo remains captain of Portugal.

The tribute from Ronaldo comes as Messi closes one of the most decorated international careers in football history.