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Cristiano Ronaldo reveals the surprising favor he used to do for Lionel Messi at award ceremonies
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Cristiano Ronaldo disclosed that he used to act as an English translator for Lionel Messi at global award ceremonies.
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The iconic pair dominated international football awards together for over fifteen consecutive seasons.
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Ronaldo emphasized the mutual respect, healthy competition and affection that defined their legendary rivalry.
In a heartwarming look back at their iconic era atop world football, Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo opened up about his personal relationship with long time rival Lionel Messi during international award galas. Despite battling for domestic and European titles on the pitch while representing Real Madrid and Barcelona, the Al Nassr forward revealed a surprising behind the scenes gesture he regularly extended to the Argentine maestro during prestigious events like the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best ceremonies.
🚨🗣️ 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Cristiano Ronaldo opens up about his relationship with Lionel Messi, revealing that he even used to TRANSLATE ENGLISH FOR HIM at award ceremonies!
“We shared the award stages for 15 YEARS, and we ALWAYS got along very well.”
“I remember translating for him what people were saying in English. It was FUNNY.”
“He ALWAYS treated me well. Of course, he defended his club and I defended mine. He defended his national team and I defended mine.”
“It was a HEALTHY RIVALRY. I think we MOTIVATED EACH OTHER.”
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) October 12, 2026
Translating English instructions during gala ceremonies
During the height of their dominance, when the two global icons swept individual accolades for over fifteen consecutive years, event organizers relied on English to deliver stage instructions and event timelines. Ronaldo shared that because Messi did not speak English at the time, he voluntarily served as an informal translator behind the scenes, ensuring the Argentine superstar clearly understood show directions, presentation schedules and protocol details before taking the main stage.
Healthy competition and mutual respect across decades
Beyond the intense media scrutiny and fan debates surrounding their individual achievements, Ronaldo highlighted the deep professional respect they maintained throughout their careers. The legendary striker noted that while each fiercely defended their respective club and national team colors, their shared time at the pinnacle of the sport created a unique bond, with their healthy rivalry serving as continuous motivation to push football excellence to unprecedented heights.
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The enduring legacy of an iconic football era
Ronaldo candid reflections offer a touching perspective on a golden era that defined modern sports history. Having collected a combined thirteen Ballon d’Or trophies, their mutual admiration demonstrates that behind the fierce competitive drive lay an enduring sense of camaraderie, reminding fans world wide that greatness is best measured not only by trophies won, but by the respect shared between champions.
Inspiring future generations of elite athletes
The mutual appreciation shared between two of the greatest athletes in history sets a powerful precedent for sportsmanship. Demonstrating that intense sporting rivalries can coexist with personal respect inspires young athletes globally, proving that true legendary status is defined both by individual excellence on the field and genuine humility off it.
Cover photos from: @cristiano – @leomessi
