Trump weighs in on the Messi vs Ronaldo debate before the 2026 World Cup final

19.07.26 AET World Cup

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US President Donald Trump sparked a pre-match frenzy in New Jersey on Sunday by weighing in on the Messi versus Ronaldo debate before the final.

Just moments before the highly anticipated World Cup 2026 final between defending champions Argentina and European kings Spain at MetLife Stadium, Trump decided to tackle the sport's most fiercely contested topic.

While Lionel Messi prepares to lead La Albiceleste toward a second consecutive global crown and Lamine Yamal aims to end La Roja's 16 year drought, the US President shared his thoughts on the eternal comparison between the Argentine skipper and his Portuguese rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking to local media outlets, Trump adopted a highly diplomatic approach to the 20 year rivalry refusing to elevate one icon above the other.

"Messi is great and Ronaldo is great too" he stated, acknowledging the monumental impact both forwards have had on the beautiful game.

The Cosmos era and Barron's influence

Rather than declaring a definitive winner, the President expanded the conversation to include past legends.

"I hate to say this but I watched the late Brazilian Pelé when he played for the New York Cosmos. I saw him play and these are all great players" Trump explained

He also revealed that his deep understanding of current football dynamics comes directly from his family. Trump credited his youngest son, Barron, a well known football enthusiast who previously played in youth academies, for providing him with constant updates about the sport.

"I get a lot of this information from my son Barron as he is a massive soccer fan. There are absolutely fantastic players out there, aside from Messi & Ronaldo, of course" he noted

Despite highlighting other talents, Trump did not hold back his personal admiration for the two generational superstars.

"When you look at it now, I have always loved Ronaldo and I have always loved Messi too" he confessed

He concluded his remarks by comparing their glamorous sporting careers to his political responsibilities. Trump mentioned that he crossed paths with Messi recently during an Inter Miami MLS championship celebration and has been acquainted with Cristiano for quite some time.

"They live a very good life and honestly, a much easier life than mine" he joked referencing the heavy burdens of the Oval Office.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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