Cristiano Ronaldo's honest view on whether Lionel Messi has finally settled GOAT debate

Cristiano Ronaldo has already given his opinion on whether Lionel Messi’s World Cup triumph ended the debate on who is the greatest of all time.

In December 2022, Messi captained Argentina to win its first World Cup since 1986 under rather dramatic circumstances.

Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the final at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.

Messi lifted the trophy which had eluded him for his entire career at perhaps his final World Cup.

Longtime rival Ronaldo was also in the Middle East for the tournament but his Portugal side was eliminated at the quarter-final stage by Morocco.

The superstar trudged down the tunnel in tears, knowing it was probably his last chance to win international football's most iconic competition.

Despite the importance of World Cup glory for names of years gone by, Ronaldo admitted it wouldn't define his legacy.

Ronaldo said: "Even if I win the World Cup that will continue. Some people like me more, some less. It’s like in life, some like blondes, some like brunettes.

"I have always had to show what I can do year after year. I would love to win this tournament.

"I’m ambitious but if you tell me I won’t win any more tournaments I would still be happy given all I have won. In the history books, all other records will be there. But obviously, a World Cup on the shelf wouldn’t be bad. It would be a dream."

Messi lifted his eighth Ballon d'Or last October thanks to his exploits at the World Cup.

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The 36-year-old paid tribute to Diego Maradona on what would've been his 63rd birthday. Messi grew up idolising Maradona and said his triumph was for 'all of Argentina'.

The Inter Miami star said: "I think there is no better place than here to congratulate him, full of players and with a ball. This Ballon d'Or is also yours and that of all of Argentina.

"All the awards have been special, but I always emphasise the importance of the team. This is secondary. Look at [Manchester] City, they have been the best and achieved everything last season.

"I have been very lucky, I have played for the best team in the world, the best in history, I have been able to win many individual awards thanks to that.

"With Argentina I have had very bad times, but I never gave up on winning the Copa America and World Cup, and that's why I'm proud of not having given up."