In partnership with Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo insists his football legacy will not be “defined” by whether he matches Lionel Messi’s success at the World Cup. Al-Nassr’s star seems to have done a complete U-turn in his interview after originally claiming that it would be an “unrealistic dream” to lift the trophy before retirement. The debate between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi continues despite both being at the end of their careers. Ronaldo is still chasing his first title with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, while Messi is enjoying his golden years in the United States at David Beckham’s Inter Miami. Ronaldo says that he does not judge his career by whether or not he wins the World Cup in 2022 with Argentina. ‘Cristiano, is it a dream to win the World Cup?’ No, this is not a nightmare. What would you define? To win a competition to determine if I am the best of all time, [of] six games, seven games. Do you think it is fair?”World Cup u-turn” Ronaldo’s quotations may surprise some people after his previous comments on the World Cup. The former Manchester United star and Real Madrid superstar has publicly stated how important it would be for him to win this competition. Ronaldo wrote on Instagram after Portugal’s quarter-final exit by Morocco was confirmed: “Winning the World Cup for Portugal has been the most ambitious goal of my career.” Fortunately, I have won several international titles including those for Portugal. But placing the name of our country at the highest level was my dream.”I fought it. “I fought for it. In the five World Cups that I played in over 16-years, I did my best to support millions of Portuguese fans and great players. I left it all on the field. I never turned away from the battle and never abandoned that dream.Yesterday, my dream came to an end. It’s not worth reacting rashly. I want to let everyone know that despite all the speculation, the many articles, and comments, my commitment to Portugal has never wavered. I always fought to achieve the goal of everyone and would never turn away from my teammates and country.”There’s not a lot more to say for now. Portugal, thank you. Qatar, thank you. The dream was beautiful while it lasted… Now, we must hope that time will be a good advisor and allow everyone to draw their own conclusions.”Ronaldo, I don’t wish to be humble”The Barcelona legend Messi won the World Cup three years ago for the first in his distinguished career, the crowning achievement of his highly successful time on the field. Ronaldo is not ashamed to admit that Messi has won more awards. Ronaldo was asked by Morgan if he believed Messi to be the GOAT. Ronaldo responded: “Is Messi a better player than me?” I don’t agree. I don’t wish to be humble. This comment has sparked an enormous amount of discussion on social networks, but the debate is likely to continue long after both men have retired. Ronaldo has not been able take Portugal beyond the semifinal stage despite Portugal consistently being in contention for football’s most coveted prize. The talisman has led them to two European Championships and the Nations League. Even if Ronaldo denies it, failing the next summer to cross the finish line will leave an obvious empty spot in his list of accomplishments. To receive a customized newsletter every day, create or log into your FOX account. Follow leagues, players and teams.
2025-11-05 23:15:54
Cristiano Ronaldo Insists Missing Out on World Cup Success Won’t ‘Define’ Legacy
