Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain ended his international career, setting aside one of football’s defining rivalries to hail his former rival’s achievements.
Messi, 39, played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring once and setting up two goals as the three-time world champions beat Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
More than 85,000 fans watched Messi bring the curtain down on a 21-year international career.
“Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I’m making the right decision,” Messi wrote on Instagram.
The Inter Miami forward reflected on his journey with Argentina, thanking his family, the clubs he represented and his supporters. He also paid tribute to Diego Maradona.
Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and helped them win the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 Finalissima.
“I am grateful. I love you all very much; I’m going to miss you, and I will always thank you for having been by our side, by my side,” Messi added.
Ronaldo responded to the post with a message recognising Messi’s contribution to Argentina.
“Leo, after so many years of defending your country, you’ve made history that will last forever. I have the utmost respect for what you’ve accomplished with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo said.
Ronaldo and Messi spent much of their careers at the centre of the debate over the greatest player of their generation, particularly during their years competing for Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Their international careers also became closely associated with the pressure of leading Portugal and Argentina, respectively.
Messi has now ended his Argentina career with a World Cup, two Copa America titles and a Finalissima among his major international honours.
