Ronaldo reignites GOAT debate, claims 'numbers prove he's the best ever'

Ronaldo rejects comparisons with Messi, stating that statistics support his claim as football's 'most complete player'

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Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited the long-standing debate over football’s greatest player, boldly declaring himself the best in the sport’s history during an interview with Spanish television.

Speaking to media outlet LaSexta TV on Monday, the Portuguese forward dismissed comparisons with fellow superstar Lionel Messi, insisting that statistics support his claim as football’s most complete player.

“I’m the best player in football history. I haven’t seen anyone better than me, and I say this from the heart,” Ronaldo stated.

At 39, the Al-Nassr captain acknowledged that many fans favor Messi but maintained that his all-around ability sets him apart.

“I do everything well in football—headers, free kicks, left foot, right foot. I’m fast. I’m strong,” Ronaldo said. “If you prefer Messi, Pele, or Maradona, I respect that. But saying Ronaldo isn’t complete? I haven’t seen anybody better than me.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, also addressed the title of football’s greatest goal scorer, pointing to his record-breaking 923 career goals.

His latest came in a brace during Al-Nassr’s 4-0 AFC Champions League victory over Al Wasl on Monday.

“Who’s the best goal scorer in history? It’s about numbers. Full stop,” Ronaldo stated. “I was looking the other day, and despite not being left-footed, I’m among the top 10 left-footed goal scorers in history—along with my head, my right foot, and penalties.”

Ronaldo remains football’s highest-paid athlete, topping Forbes’ 2024 list with off-the-field earnings reaching $60 million, fueled by his billion-strong social media following.

As he approaches his 40th birthday, the Portuguese icon made it clear that he has no plans to retire from club or international football anytime soon.

Messi has scored 850 career goals, ranking second in the all-time list, 73 goals behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 923 goals. Ronaldo leads the international goalscoring chart with 135 goals for Portugal, while Messi has 112 goals for Argentina.

Ronaldo’s remarkable season with Al-Nassr includes 15 goals in 17 games, and his brace against Al Wasl recently took his tally to 923. Meanwhile, Messi, struggling with injury at Inter Miami, ended the MLS season with 20 goals, tied for third place with Luis Suarez.