Brazilian Legend Ronaldo Names Lionel Messi the Greatest of All Time

RIO DE JANEIRO, June 19 (CNA) — Following Lionel Messi’s hat-trick in his opening match of the 2026 World Cup, Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazario lauded the Argentine captain as the greatest player in the history of the sport.

A hat-trick is a term in football referring to a player scoring three or more goals in a single match. With this performance, Messi has reached 16 career World Cup goals, equaling the record previously held by German striker Miroslav Klose and surpassing Ronaldo’s own tally of 15.

In statements to sports media outlet TyC Sports, Ronaldo characterized Messi as the undisputed "Greatest of All Time" (GOAT). "Records are meant to be broken, and the player who has done so comes as no surprise to fans worldwide," Ronaldo remarked, noting that Argentina is currently defending their title.

Ronaldo further commented on Messi's influence on the pitch, stating that every time the Argentine plays, his performance is characterized by historical significance and grace. He added that the global football community should recognize the reality of Messi’s status as the greatest to ever play the game.