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Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to longtime rival Lionel Messi following the Argentine’s retirement from international football.
Messi played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday night, scoring once and providing two assists in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Reacting to Messi’s farewell post on Instagram on Wednesday, Ronaldo praised the 39-year-old for his achievements with Argentina.
“Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will live on forever. You have all my respect for everything you’ve achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo wrote.
The message came after more than 15 years of rivalry between the two players, who dominated world football for much of their careers.
Messi described his farewell as “the saddest day of my career” after bringing his 21-year international journey to an end.
He retired from the Argentina national team after making a record 208 appearances and scoring 126 goals.
Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and also helped the country win the Copa America.
He had announced his international retirement in August following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
Ronaldo and Messi have exchanged messages of respect on several occasions despite their long-running rivalry.
Ronaldo had also expressed support for Messi following the death of his father earlier this year.
Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami, while Ronaldo remains with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
English (US) ·