By Desmond Ogbonmwan
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário has declared that the long-running debate over football’s greatest player should finally come to an end following Lionel Messi’s latest historic achievement at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former Brazil striker made the comments after Messi produced another memorable performance for Argentina, scoring three goals to reach a major milestone in World Cup history.
The hat-trick took Messi’s total World Cup goals tally to 16, moving him past Ronaldo’s own record of 15 goals scored across four World Cup tournaments. The achievement also saw the Argentine captain draw level with German football legend Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Messi’s latest feat has once again reignited discussions about his place among football’s greatest players, with many fans and analysts viewing the achievement as another significant addition to an already remarkable career.
Speaking in comments reported by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Ronaldo said football fans should no longer hesitate to acknowledge Messi’s status as the greatest player the sport has ever produced.
“It’s time for the world to stop hiding and accept the fact that he is the best player of all time,” Ronaldo said.
“He continues to deliver every season and in the World Cup and, yet, there are still doubts about him. It is an unforgettable and historic night that will remain forever in the history books.”
Ronaldo, who won two World Cups with Brazil and remains one of the most celebrated strikers in football history, said Messi’s consistency over the years makes his latest achievement unsurprising.
According to the Brazilian icon, records are meant to be broken, and Messi’s ability to continue performing at the highest level despite spending nearly two decades at the top of world football demonstrates his extraordinary quality.
Messi’s performance at the tournament has been one of the major talking points of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine star has once again proven instrumental for his country as they seek another successful campaign on football’s biggest stage.
The Inter Miami forward has spent much of his career breaking records at both club and international levels. From his trophy-laden years at Barcelona to leading Argentina to major international titles, Messi has consistently strengthened his claim as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The debate over football’s greatest player has often centred around Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pelé, Diego Maradona and other legendary figures. However, Messi’s supporters argue that his combination of individual awards, team success, longevity and record-breaking performances place him above every other player in football history.
Ronaldo’s comments are particularly notable because they come from one of the sport’s most respected figures and a player whose own World Cup achievements have long been regarded as among the greatest in football.
As the tournament continues, Messi will have the opportunity to move clear of Klose and establish himself as the outright highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
For now, however, Ronaldo believes the latest chapter in Messi’s extraordinary career should finally settle one of football’s most enduring debates.
