‘I Am The Best In History, Full Stop’ – Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared himself the best player in history “full stop,” while addressing his long rivalry with Lionel Messi and his pursuit of a historic 1,000-goal target.

In an interview with CNN Portugal, the 41-year-old said he and Messi shared Ballon d’Or stages for 15 years and always got along well. He revealed he sometimes acted as an informal English translator for Messi.

“I remember a time or two translating for him what they were saying in English, ‘Messi, you’re going to stay here,” Ronaldo said.

He added that he helped Messi through media obligations at awards events. “Afterwards, she’s going to ask you a question. And I would translate. The presenter would say to you: ‘We are going to do this,’ and you would tell Messi: ‘Yes, very good.’ And it was funny,” he said.

Ronaldo said respect remained despite their club and national-team rivalries. “He always treated me well. Of course he defended his club and I, mine. He defended his national team and I, mine,” he said.

Reflecting on their peak years, Ronaldo described the competition as healthy and motivating. “I think there were years where he wanted to give everything and score, and so did I,” he said. “It was a healthy rivalry, like the one they had maybe Ayrton Senna and Prost. I think we motivated each other.”

Messi holds eight Ballons d’Or, a World Cup, 13 league titles to Ronaldo’s eight, and six Golden Boots to Ronaldo’s four. Ronaldo has five Champions League titles to Messi’s four.

On the GOAT debate, Ronaldo said he respects personal preferences for Messi, Pelé or Maradona. But he added,

“Saying that Cristiano isn’t complete is a lie.” He maintains his longevity and goalscoring volume place him at the top of the game as he closes in on 1,000 career goals.