Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a classy message to Lionel Messi after his long-time rival retired from international football.
Messi scored a penalty in his last game for Argentina against Benin on Wednesday. His 126th goal for his country came in his 208th appearance on an emotional night in Buenos Aires.
Emotional Send-Off in Buenos Aires
The 39-year-old got an incredible send-off at the Estadio Monumental, with a drone show celebrating his best moments in an Argentina shirt after the match. Messi then delivered a tear-filled speech to his team-mates, describing his international career as “the most wonderful thing that can happen”.
Messi was instrumental in Argentina's World Cup win in 2022, their first title since 1986, and his goals helped Lionel Scaloni's side reach the final once again this summer, although they were beaten by Spain. His legacy as one of the greats of the game is undisputed and shown by the message from Ronaldo.
Ronaldo's Tribute
Writing on Instagram, Ronaldo said: "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."
The 41-year-old's words came under Messi's statement, which read: "Yesterday was my last game and I already miss wearing blue and white. I know I'm making the right decision. It was an incredible road, filled with joys and also some sorrows, but I'm clear that it was worth every step I took."
"And I'm left with a lot to say. It is impossible for me to express everything I feel in a few words or in a post. This trip would have been impossible without my family, who always stood by my side and supported me, especially during the difficult times, when I needed it most."
Messi's Farewell Message
"They were also indispensable my friends, all the colleagues and technicians I had, along with their technical bodies. I don't want to forget Diego, who put our country where it deserved to be and who, as I always say, I know that he helped us being here with us and also from heaven, in every step we took."
"Thanks to the clubs I played in, for always respecting my feelings and allowing me to dedicate myself to my country when it was time to put on the national team shirt. And, of course, thank God: without His guidance and His will, we wouldn't even be dreaming of having come this far."
"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."
While he has waved goodbye to Argentina, Messi will continue playing club football, with his Inter Miami contract running until the end of the 2028 season. He has already laid the groundwork for when he does retire, buying Spanish minnows UE Cornella as well as becoming the owner of second-division side CD Eldense.
