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Ronaldo Downplays World Cup’s Role in Legacy as Messi Calls It Football’s Pinnacle

Messi’s comment was widely framed as a direct rebuttal that refreshed the rivalry narrative between the two greats.

Overview

  • Cristiano Ronaldo told Piers Morgan that winning the 2026 World Cup is not his dream and would not redefine his place in football history.
  • He questioned whether a six- or seven-match tournament should determine a player’s legacy and said he has earned recognition as one of the best.
  • Ronaldo maintained that Portugal will still push to win the tournament, adding that a Portuguese triumph would surprise the world.
  • He pointed to three major titles with Portugal, citing the Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League wins in 2019 and 2025.
  • At the Foro Empresarial Americano, Lionel Messi called a World Cup the highest achievement for any footballer, a stance outlets cast as a pointed response.