Cristiano Ronaldo has put football rivalry aside to send a heartfelt message to Lionel Messi. This follows the death of the Argentine star’s father and longtime representative, Jorge Messi.
According to Gulf News, Ronaldo offered his support beneath Messi’s emotional Instagram tribute to his father. Jorge died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness.
“A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength,” Ronaldo wrote.
The brief message quickly attracted attention from football fans. It brought together two players whose careers have been compared and debated for nearly two decades.
Messi mourns father in emotional tribute
Messi had earlier broken his silence on his father’s death with an emotional message. He reflected on the enormous role Jorge played throughout his life and football career.
Jorge died at a medical facility in Rosario after a long illness. He had been closely involved in his son’s journey from childhood. Later, he became one of his most trusted advisers and representatives.
Messi shared a photograph with his father alongside the words, “Te amo, pa,” meaning “I love you, Dad.”
The 39-year-old also revealed the depth of his grief. He admitted that losing his father had left him uncertain about his own future in football.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you,” Messi wrote.
He reflected on how Jorge stood by him from the earliest stages of his career. This included his difficult move from Argentina to Barcelona as a youngster.
World Cup carried personal meaning for Messi
Messi also revealed that his father’s illness weighed heavily on him during the 2026 World Cup.
He said Jorge had wanted him to play in the tournament, but his health deteriorated shortly before it began.
Messi became emotional during the competition and later explained his feelings. He said they were connected to difficult circumstances within his family rather than events on the pitch.
Following Jorge’s death, Messi said he would honour his father by passing on the values and lessons he received from him to his own children.
Ronaldo’s message adds to tributes
Ronaldo’s condolence has become one of the most prominent messages sent to Messi. Football figures and fans now rally around the Argentine during the difficult period.
Despite spending much of their careers competing for football’s biggest individual and team honours, Ronaldo and Messi have repeatedly spoken respectfully about each other.
This time, there was no discussion about goals, trophies or records.
Ronaldo’s message to his longtime rival was simply one of support: “Much strength.”
