WWhen mentioning the two great icons of modern world football, it is impossible not to think of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo—two names that have become legends in the hearts of millions. Every time they take the field, it is a remarkable sporting event, and both have created unforgettable moments in their careers. However, the question "Who will retire first, Messi or Ronaldo?" is widely discussed in the football world today. Will Messi, who has just reached the peak of the 2022 World Cup, be the first to end his career, or will Ronaldo, who is constantly pursuing his World Cup dream, continue to fight until when? Let's find out with Win Betting Tips through the article below!
Lionel Messi and the pinnacle of his career
On December 18, 2022, Lionel Messi and the Argentine team won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. This is not only a title but also the pinnacle of his career. For Messi, this victory not only brought joy to Argentina but also a historic milestone in world football. By winning the World Cup, Messi completed his collection of personal titles, conquering every peak in his career, including seven Ballon d'Ors, winning the Copa America, club titles, and countless personal records.
After this victory, Messi said, "I have achieved everything in football, nothing more." These words made many fans worry about whether Messi's motivation was still strong enough for him to continue playing at the top. This was even more understandable considering that Messi decided to leave Europe to join Inter Miami in the US. Messi has reportedly signed a two-year contract with David Beckham's team, with an option to extend for another year. This could be seen as a turning point in Messi's career, as he moved to a more relaxed football environment after years of fighting in Europe's top leagues.
On June 24, 2025, Messi will turn 37, and his peak football career will be coming to an end. Messi maintained impressive form for Paris Saint-Germain before his departure, but it is clear that he is no longer concerned with club titles. If he maintains his passion in the coming years, Messi may fulfill his contract with Inter Miami and possibly not participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo and the final World Cup dream
While Messi has conquered every peak, Cristiano Ronaldo still has one dream left to fulfill: winning the World Cup. Although he has participated in 5 World Cups since 2006, Ronaldo's best achievement was a 4th-place finish with the Portuguese team in the 2006 World Cup, yet he still hopes to play in his 6th World Cup.
At 39, Ronaldo continues to follow a rigorous training regimen. His goal is to be in the Portuguese squad for the 2026 World Cup, even though he will be 41 by then. In the summer of 2024, Ronaldo may participate in EURO 2024, an important tournament in his pursuit of the World Cup dream. These years may be the final phase of Ronaldo's career, but he still holds onto hope.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has proven himself to be a person who never gives up in the face of challenges. With impeccable technique, outstanding physical strength, and a strong fighting spirit, he remains a hugely influential player for Portugal and the teams he has played for. Ronaldo's chances of playing in the next World Cup are still very much alive, and he will probably fight until the very end to make that dream come true.
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Who will retire first Messi or Ronaldo?
Although Messi and Ronaldo are only two years apart in age, their careers have taken very different paths. Messi has won every major trophy, while Ronaldo still has a desire to win the World Cup, despite having participated in five World Cups. Although both have impressive achievements, their motivations and goals in the final years of their careers may influence their decision to retire.
For Messi, although he may still play for a few more years, the feeling of "having achieved everything" and the change in his playing environment suggest that he may retire first. The prediction that Messi may not participate in the 2026 World Cup increases the likelihood of his retirement shortly. Messi is no longer as concerned with club titles but instead has been able to find peace and new goals in a less intense league like MLS. This may lead him to decide not to continue in the top football environment and retire earlier than his colleague Ronaldo.
As for Ronaldo, he still seems to have big goals in his career, and the World Cup dream remains a major motivation to help him maintain his peak performance. Although he is getting older, with his unceasing desire and determination, Ronaldo may be able to extend his career for a few more years. Ronaldo's career has always been defined by effort and fighting spirit, as he constantly strives for success. Although he has achieved countless individual and club titles, the desire to win the World Cup remains a powerful motivation for him, and this may help him maintain his fitness and dedication longer than Messi.
In short, who will retire first, Ronaldo or Messi? Although both are great football legends with different goals in the final years of their careers, Messi will likely retire before Ronaldo. However, Ronaldo's hunger could help him extend his career for a few more years, and we will continue to see excellent performances from both stars until they choose to end their legendary careers.
In Conclusion
Both Messi and Ronaldo are living legends of world football, whose careers have inspired millions. No matter when they retire, we will never forget the extraordinary feats they have achieved throughout their careers. Predicting who will retire first is a difficult question, but perhaps Messi, having already achieved so much and no longer have the same motivation to compete at the highest level, will be the first to retire. As for Ronaldo, with his burning desire to win the World Cup, he may continue to play until he is no longer physically capable. Time will answer the question of who will retire first, Messi or Ronaldo, but certainly, no matter who retires first, Messi and Ronaldo will always be legends in the hearts of fans.
