United States President, Donald Trump, may have reignited the longstanding Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo debate during Inter Miami’s visit to the White House, according to Gulf News.
Messi appeared amused by Trump’s remarks after the 47th president mentioned Ronaldo during a lengthy address in the Oval Office.
After being introduced, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner shook hands with Trump.
“It’s my privilege to say what no other president has ever said before, welcome to the White House Lionel Messi,” Trump declared.
The Messi-Ronaldo rivalry has captivated football fans worldwide for nearly two decades, as supporters debate their achievements, styles, and records.
Messi is celebrated for his dribbling, vision, and playmaking, while Ronaldo is known for his athleticism, goal-scoring, and physical prowess.
Their competition reached its peak in La Liga, with Messi at FC Barcelona and Ronaldo at Real Madrid, where they regularly vied for trophies and individual honors like the Ballon d’Or.
During his White House speech, with the Inter Miami squad standing behind him following their 2025 MLS Cup triumph, Trump brought up his son Barron’s admiration for both players. “He (Barron) is a big fan of yours,” Trump told Messi.
“He thinks you’re just a great person. He’s a tremendous fan of yours, as well as a gentleman named Ronaldo.
“Cristiano is a great, some big champions, some great, great athletes in that sport.”
Messi recently made MLS history by becoming the first player to win the Most Valuable Player award in consecutive seasons. Trump lauded the Argentine star’s choice to play in the United States: “Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career – the most of all time.
“You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.”
Ever the provocateur, Trump also referenced another football legend, Pelé, and playfully questioned whether Messi might surpass him, “I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pele play. I don’t know, you may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good.”
