Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a heartfelt message of support to Lionel Messi following the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi.
Messi is currently going through a difficult period after his father, aged 68, passed away following a long illness. The Argentine superstar shared an emotional tribute to his late father on social media on Wednesday.
Among those who reached out to Messi was his longtime football rival, Ronaldo. Despite their famous rivalry and years of competing at the highest level, the Portuguese superstar put football aside to offer his condolences and support.
Ronaldo wrote to Messi:
«“Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong.”»
The message was shared by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano and has since drawn attention from football fans around the world.
Ronaldo and Messi spent more than a decade at the centre of one of football’s greatest individual rivalries, competing for major trophies and individual honours.
However, moments like this have repeatedly shown the mutual respect between the two players.
For Messi and his family, the focus now remains on mourning Jorge Messi and remembering his life and influence on his son’s remarkable football journey.