In 2016, Cristiano Ronaldo and Xavi Hernandez engaged in a public dispute after Xavi suggested that Ronaldo didn’t measure up to his long-time rival, Lionel Messi. Xavi, who made the comment while still at Barcelona, drew criticism from Ronaldo, who was at Real Madrid at the time. Xavi had already moved on to play for the Qatari club Al Sadd when Ronaldo responded with a sharp retort.
The Messi-Ronaldo rivalry is one of the longest and most iconic in football history, with both players driving each other to excel. Over the years, many players and coaches have weighed in on who they believe is superior. Xavi, having played for Barcelona, where Messi achieved most of his success, backed the Argentine in the ongoing debate. In response to Xavi’s remarks, Ronaldo fired back, saying, “I’m the most searched player on the internet. Anyone who wants free publicity or media attention talks about me. I couldn’t care less what Xavi says about me; he plays in Qatar or I don’t even know where. He’s won every collective trophy, including a World Cup and the European Championship, but he’s never won a Ballon d’Or.”
Xavi came close to winning the Ballon d’Or three times, finishing third in 2009, 2010, and 2011. In contrast, Lionel Messi has won the award eight times, more than Ronaldo, who has won it five times.
In 2023, Ronaldo was asked about his rivalry with Messi while on international duty with the Portugal national team, following their departures from European football. Messi had joined Inter Miami, while Ronaldo was playing in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo acknowledged the end of their famous rivalry, saying, “The rivalry is over. It was good, a healthy rivalry that spectators liked a lot. Whoever likes Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t have to hate Messi or vice versa because they’re both very good. They changed the history of football, and they keep on doing it.”
Ronaldo emphasized the mutual respect they share, noting that despite no longer playing in Europe, both continue to have successful careers. He added, “We are respected throughout the world, that’s the most important thing. He makes his way, I make mine. He has done well, from what I’ve seen, and so have I. The legacy continues. The rivalry, I don’t see it like that.”
Ronaldo also clarified that while they are not close friends, as they have never shared a personal meal, they have a professional relationship built on mutual respect from sharing the stage for 15 years.
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