‘It’s gone’ — Ronaldo calls for end to 15-year rivalry with Messi which ‘changed football’

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared an end to his rivalry with Lionel Messi which has ruled football for the last 15 years

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that his rivalry with Argentine World Cup winner Lionel Messi is now over with both players now finding different paths to the end of their careers.

Ronaldo calls time on Messi feud

Ronaldo and Messi have been at each others’ throats for the better part of the last two decades, entertaining the world of football as they set and broke records aplenty while trying to outdo each other. 

The pair have undoubtedly marked an important era in football with their opposition, but the Portugal international has revealed that he considers that time to be over. 

Speaking ahead of Portugal’s European Championships qualifier against Slovakia, the Selecao captain and legend said, "I don't see things like that, the rivalry is gone. It was good, spectators liked it.”

Ronaldo asks fans to respect both legends

Ronaldo also noted that the aggravation from fans of both players was unnecessary as they respected each other contrary to their supporters’ behaviour. 

"Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don't have to hate Messi and vice versa, Ronaldo said, continuing, “We've done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that's the most important thing.

The Portugal ace further explained why he believed their rivalry to be over, saying, "He's followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe. 

“From what I've seen, he's been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don't see the rivalry like that. 

Finally, Ronaldo stated his own respect for Messi after sharing the spotlight with the Inter Miami forward for various years, saying, “We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I'm not saying we're friends, I've never had dinner with him, but we're professional colleagues and we respect each other."

Ronaldo recently scored the 850th goal of his illustrious career and still looks to be going on strong as he leads Portugal on an international trophy pursuit. 

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