Cristiano Ronaldo Sends Respectful Farewell Message to Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo sent a personal and respectful farewell message to Lionel Messi following his departure from the Argentina national team, praising his legacy.
After more than two decades in which the two defined an entire era in world football, Cristiano Ronaldo chose to respond this evening (Wednesday) to Lionel Messi's farewell letter from the Argentina national team with a personal and respectful message.
"Leo, so many years of defending your country, and a story that will last forever," Ronaldo wrote. "You have all my respect for everything you achieved with Argentina. A hug."
The message received special attention due to the relationship between the two over the years. Messi and Ronaldo were the greatest rivals of their generation, especially during the period when they played for Barcelona and Real Madrid, but over the years both made sure to emphasize mutual respect even at the peak of competition.
Messi's farewell comes at a stage when Ronaldo is also in the final part of his career, but his story with the Portugal national team is still far from a clear end. In the past week, he was at the center of great tension surrounding the national camp, after leaving it following a confrontation with coach Jorge Jesus.
Despite this, Ronaldo has already clarified that he does not see his path in the national team as ending at this stage. In a statement published after his departure, he wrote that after serving any punishment imposed on him, and if he is fit and playing for his club, he will continue to be available to "compete and win for our national team."
