Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentine captain announced the end of his international career following his final appearance for the national team.
Messi, in an emotional Instagram post, said he already missed wearing Argentina’s famous blue-and-white shirt and insisted he was confident he had made the right decision.
The 39-year-old described his international journey as an “incredible road” marked by moments of joy and sorrow, adding that every step had been worthwhile.
Messi also thanked his family, friends, teammates, coaches, the clubs he represented and God for supporting him throughout his career with Argentina.
He specially remembered the late Diego Maradona, saying he believed the Argentine legend had helped the team reach its current heights.
“Leo, so many years defending your country and a history that will last forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo wrote in response.
Ronaldo’s message offered a rare public show of respect between two players whose rivalry has defined an era of world football.
Messi’s farewell message also reflected on the importance of wearing the national-team shirt, thanking the clubs he played for for allowing him to prioritise Argentina whenever international duty called.
“I am a grateful person. I love you so much, I will miss you and I will always thank you for being by our side, by my side,” Messi wrote.
His post quickly drew millions of reactions, with Ronaldo’s comment alone attracting more than 1.7 million likes.
Messi leaves international football having established himself as Argentina’s most decorated modern player, while his rivalry with Ronaldo remains one of the defining stories in the sport’s history.
