Lionel Messi, having clinched an unprecedented 8th Ballon d’Or, remains at the forefront of football discussions. The 36-year-old Argentine, a key figure in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in December 2022, has propelled himself to historic heights.

In the enduring Messi-Ronaldo saga that has defined football greatness for over 15 years, both players continue to leave an indelible mark. Messi’s prolific start at Inter Miami, where he scored 10 goals in seven League Cup games, contrasts with Ronaldo’s impressive goal tally of over 40 in 2023 for club and country.

 

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A recent poll conducted by Pubity Sports sought to determine the ‘Top 10 greatest Athletes’ in the world, and Messi emerged victorious, securing over 22.5% of the votes. The revered duo Messi and Ronaldo occupied the top two spots, while luminaries like Mohammed Ali, Michael Jordan, Virat Kohli, Usain Bolt, Mike Tyson, Lebron James, Serena Williams, and Michael Phelps completed the list. Surprisingly, legends Diego Maradona and Pele didn’t find a spot in the top 10.

The perpetual debate on who is the superior player between Messi and Ronaldo continues, but the two icons have recently acknowledged the end of their intense rivalry after more than 15 years of unparalleled competition.