Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo admitted admiring the career of Barcelona captain and star Lionel Messi, speaking about the rivalry between them several years ago, in an interview broadcast on Portuguese television.

"I am very impressed by his career so far," Ronaldo told TVI.

"It's a good opponent that exists in football but it's not exceptional. Michael Jordan had two basketball rivals, the late Brazilian Ayrton Senna and Frenchman Alain Prost, brought together by a big Formula One competition. .

For CR7, his rivalry with a player from Tine Messi is something that always pushes him to overcome himself and give the best.

The Portuguese international striker said he did not doubt that Messi made me a better player and vice versa, when I win titles it troubles him, and it is similar to me when he wins his role.

When asked about his off-court relationship with the "flea" with whom he shares the Golden Ball record, Ronaldo pointed to mutual respect.

"I have an excellent professional relationship with Messi, because we have shared the same moments 15 years ago. I did not eat dinner with him, but why not in the future, I will not oppose it."