Ronaldo Declares War On Lionel Messi, Says Their Rivalry “Is Just Starting”
opera.com
The last has not been heard of the 2019 Balon d’or which was won by Barcelona Legend, Lionel Messi. Messi won his sixth Balon d’or title yesterday and became the only played to win six Balon d’or titles. Cristiano Ronaldo finished third while Virgil Van Dijk finished second. This has been eliciting reactions from all quarters and Ronaldo was not left out.
Ronaldo did not attend the ceremony because he was to receive an award in Italy as the Most Valuable Player of the year after his stellar performance for Juventus since he joined from Real Madrid. Just after receiving his award, journalists met him at the exit of the auditorium and the question was asked if Messi’s victory meant the rivalry between them has ended. Ronaldo replied: “It hasn’t finished yet, it is just starting.” The battle between Ronaldo and Messi has lasted for ten years, since Ronaldo joined Real Madrid and his eventual move to Juventus.
Virgil Van Dijk was asked if Ronaldo’s absence meant that he had one rival less. His answer caused as stir as he said Ronaldo was never a rival. Ronaldo’s response was a classic dual response to Van Dijk’s comment and Messi’s victory. Last year, Ronaldo lost the award to his former Real Madrid team mate, Luka Modric, although he had a great year for Juventus and for Portugal, a development some analysts attributed to his departure from Real Madrid.
Ronaldo’s comment is still trending many hours after the Balon d’or awards as his fans have taken to social media to show him solidarity.
