‘I’m the most complete,’ Ronaldo declares self ‘GOAT’ ahead Messi, Pele, Maradona
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has boldly proclaimed himself as the greatest football player of all time, placing himself ahead of his long-time rival Lionel Messi, Argentina’s Diego Maradona, and Brazil’s legendary Pele.
The debate over the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in football has been a long-standing one, often centered around Ronaldo and Messi. Together, they have claimed 13 Ballon d’Or awards—five for Ronaldo and eight for Messi.
Historically, comparisons have extended to icons like Pele, a three-time World Cup winner, and Maradona, who famously led Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup.
In a recent interview with La Sexta, Ronaldo expressed confidence in his abilities, asserting his superiority over the other three legends, each of whom has been celebrated as one of the greatest in football history.
‘Most Complete Player’
“I think I’m the most complete player there has ever been. That’s my opinion. It could be a question of taste but I think it’s me. I do everything in football. I head well, I take set pieces well, I shoot well with my left foot, I’m fast, I’m strong, I jump,” he said in the now-viral interview.
“Taste is one thing, saying this, that or that, whether you prefer Messi, Pele, or Maradona, I hear it and I respect it but to say that Cristiano isn’t complete is a lie. I’m the most complete. I don’t see anyone better than me and I tell you that with all my heart.”
‘Best in History’
Ronaldo, 39, is one of the most prolific scorers in the game. Currently featuring for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, the forward is inching to reach a record-setting 1,000 career goals.
Already, he has netted 923 goals in 1,261 for both club and country. Though he aims to reach the 1,000-goal mark, Ronaldo believes he has done enough to earn the best player in history tag.
Two goals and a win! ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/TMYy7dZibv
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 3, 2025
“Even if I score 920, 925, or 930 goals, the best in history is me,” he said. “Period.”
Ronaldo featured for Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.