AI predicts what Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi will look like in 2042 - the results are quite scary

An AI artist has predicted what Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi will look like in 2042, and while the results are fascinating, it's making us feel old.

The footballing icons have been going at it for 15 years in a duel to prove who is the best of all time, with Luka Modric the only player to interrupt their 10-year Ballon d'Or supremacy in 2018.

The pair are continuing to rip it up in the Saudi Pro League and MLS respectively, and you get the feeling they could go on forever if their bodies let them.

Time catches up with us all, however. Ronaldo turned 38 in February, while Messi is currently 36.

We're struggling to imagine a world without Ronaldo and Messi playing football. Retirement doesn't necessarily end their involvement in the sport, but it closes a magical chapter in its history.

What if they decided to return as managers? Ronaldo did hint at stepping into a coaching role during an interview in 2019. He told ICON: "I'm not ruling it out."

On the other hand, Messi's plans for life after football remain unknown. Although, he has suggested he would be interested in becoming a sporting director.

In 2042, Ronaldo will be 56-years-old. Messi will be 54. But according to AI, they don't look too shabby at all.

Alper Yesiltas/Instagram)

Messi looks to have ditched the beard for good, while both men have started to see their hair turn grey. Only natural at that age.

The attire they're both dressed in is... rather interesting. Ronaldo's outfit is more suited to Messi and vice versa. We can all see Ronaldo rocking a black shirt with the collar popped, can't we?