Giannis Antetokounmpo has weighed in on the Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate, and while he recognises Messi’s talent, his personal choice is Ronaldo.
The Milwaukee Bucks star was asked to pick between the two football icons, a debate that has divided fans for nearly two decades.
Giannis approached the question with balance, separating pure ability from mentality and personal connection.
Giannis Antetokounmpo analyses Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo’s greatness
The Messi vs Ronaldo debate resurfaced after Giannis Antetokounmpo shared his detailed view on both players.
The Bucks on Instagram posted Giannis explaining how he sees the rivalry between the two football legends.
“I think Messi is a pure talent. Pure talent, and with hard work and discipline throughout his career, and consistency of being in the top. He is probably maybe the best player of all time,” Antetokounmpo said.
He added: “But for me, I relate and I get closer to people that I’m similar to them, right, like hard work, discipline, take care of your body, be consistent for many years.
“He’s 41 years old now, right? 41 years old, still playing high level, so my mindset is closer to Cristiano Ronaldo’s mindset.”
Giannis made a clear distinction between natural ability and personal identification. He acknowledged Messi’s technical brilliance and achievements, but placed greater emphasis on mentality, longevity, and physical dedication.
Giannis Antetokounmpo explains Cristiano Ronaldo’s preference
Giannis then clarified why Ronaldo ultimately edges it for him in the Messi vs Ronaldo argument. He broke down the mindset component that shapes his own career approach.
“But when it comes to the game, the love and the consistency and the hard work and the, you know, push the envelope and keep on getting better, I’m more similar to Ronaldo,” Giannis continued.
“So when you ask me that question, I say Ronaldo, but now if you put them, who has accomplished more in their career; 8 Ballon d’Or, 5 Ballon d’Or, World Cup, not the World Cup, 5 Champions League, 4 Champions League, it’s what you prefer,” the Bucks star concluded.
Giannis did not dismiss Messi’s record. Instead, he framed the debate as one of preference.
For him, Ronaldo’s discipline and sustained excellence align more closely with his own values, even while he accepts that Messi’s career achievements remain extraordinary.
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