The latest chapter in a rivalry that has spanned nearly two decades saw Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo take a swipe at Major League Soccer, where Lionel Messi currently plays.
After conquering Europe, Ronaldo sought a fresh challenge and, in January 2023, signed a lucrative deal with Saudi club Al-Nassr.
Just months later, in the summer of the same year, Messi also departed Europe, choosing to continue his career in the United States with Inter Miami.
Since their respective moves, Ronaldo has outscored his long-time rival, but Messi has already lifted a major trophy with his new club—an achievement that still eludes the Portuguese forward at Al-Nassr.
However, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner believes his path presents a tougher professional challenge than Messi’s.
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Ronaldo backs the Saudi Pro League
Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr | Imago
Ronaldo, who recently claimed that the Saudi Pro League is stronger than Ligue 1, defended his decision to move to the Middle East, telling La Sexta:
“When I made the decision to come, I didn’t expect the league to grow this fast, but I knew that within a year or two, it would be top-level, just as it is now. People don’t understand; they assume too much and talk too much.
“I find it frustrating because there’s a clear difference in perception when people talk about Saudi Arabia compared to the United States. Is MLS a weaker league? Obviously. But just because it’s Saudi Arabia, people look down on it. If you consider the calibre of players here, the league deserves more respect.”
Ronaldo turns 40 on February 5, yet he continues to defy age. Since turning 30, he has netted 460 goals—just three short of the 463 he scored in his twenties. And from the looks of it, he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
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