The debate over Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s greatness is a long-standing and passionate one in the world of football. Fans of both players have been at odds over who the better player is for years. Some fans compare their individual accolades, such as Ballon d’Or awards, while others focus on their team achievements, like league titles, the Champions League, and international trophies.
Regardless of the perspective from which this debate is viewed, the fact remains that their fans will continue to passionately disagree over who the better player is, and it’s a topic that sparks lively discussions and debates among football enthusiasts.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s refusal to talk to Gary Lineker
Speaking about the rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, former Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker revealed that Ronaldo had refused to speak to him in the past. This revelation came during the BBC’s coverage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar when Rio Ferdinand discussed Ronaldo’s career and interactions with other individuals in the football world.
“I can tell you from my own experience that if you harbour the opinion that Lionel Messi is the better footballer, then he doesn’t want to speak to you,” Gary Lineker said.
Rio Ferdinand leapt to his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo’s defence, saying, “It’s weird because he’s achieved so much, so what more is there for him to aim at? But he’ll be scratching around, so he’s got something to aim at because he needs that fuel.
“He uses every single comment from a pundit, comment from the media, report or record that’s available as fuel.” Jokingly, Rio Ferdinand added, “He doesn’t like you, Gary.”
And in response, Gary Lineker concluded by saying, “That’s okay. I understand that even though I have adored watching his career. He’s an incredible footballer but slightly touchy on that subject.”
Who has more Ballon d’Or wins between Messi and Ronaldo?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of the most phenomenal footballers of our era, have collectively accumulated 12 Ballon d’Or awards, which recognize the best-performing male footballer in a particular soccer year. Their dominance and achievements in the world of football are truly remarkable and have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
Cristiano Ronaldo won his first Ballon d’Or at Manchester United and went on to win four other Ballon d’Or awards in his illustrious career. On the other hand, Lionel Messi won most of his Ballon d’Or awards during his memorable time at Barcelona. Messi has won a total of seven Ballon d’Or in his career.
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