Messi's Blockbuster Inter Miami Deal Sends Shockwaves Through Ronaldo's World
The legendary rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi appears far from reaching its conclusion.
These two competitors, universally regarded as the finest players in football history, have driven each other to extraordinary achievements and continue to captivate fans across the globe despite being in the twilight of their careers.
Ronaldo remains breaking barriers in his early 40s with Al Nassr while Messi's star power has significantly boosted Major League Soccer's profile since joining Inter Miami.
Though they no longer face each other on the pitch, the competition between Ronaldo and Messi persists, with both players securing notable contract renewals in 2025. Messi's recently announced three-year extension with Inter Miami promises to write another fascinating chapter in this legendary rivalry.
But what impact does Messi's new agreement have on Ronaldo and his future retirement decisions?
What Age Will Cristiano Ronaldo Reach When Lionel Messi's Contract Concludes?
Messi's three-year extension keeps him at Inter Miami through the conclusion of the 2028 season, which concludes at year's end. The Argentine star will reach 41 years old when his current agreement expires with the Herons, though Ronaldo will be considerably older.
The Portuguese legend continues performing at an exceptionally high standard, but his incredible physical condition will face its ultimate challenge by late 2028. When Messi's contract concludes, Ronaldo will have reached 43 years of age and be mere months away from turning 44.
Naturally, there's always the chance that Messi might step away before his new contract reaches completion, whether due to a serious injury or personal decision. Nevertheless, the Argentine should be capable of continuing for several more years given MLS's reduced intensity compared to Europe's elite leagues, particularly if he steps away from international football with Argentina following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
If anyone possesses the ability to perform at elite levels into their mid-40s, it would be Ronaldo. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United legend has devoted his entire career to maintaining peak physical condition and, similar to Messi, currently faces less demanding competition weekly. This should aid in prolonging his career, though whether he can match Messi's longevity remains uncertain.
Could Lionel Messi's Fresh Contract Motivate Cristiano Ronaldo to Continue Playing?
Currently, Ronaldo's Al Nassr agreement concludes before Messi's Inter Miami contract. The Portugal captain signed fresh terms over the summer, extending his tenure with the Saudi Arabian club for an additional two seasons. His updated contract ends following the 2026–27 season, when he'll be 42 years old.
Al Nassr will undoubtedly seek to retain Ronaldo for as long as feasibly possible, though even this supremely driven athlete might contemplate retirement once his current deal expires. The 2026–27 campaign would mark his 25th year in professional football, with very few players competing at the highest level for such an extended period.
Nevertheless, this is Ronaldo under discussion. The 40-year-old is completely devoted to football, with his relentless competitive nature serving as the cornerstone of his remarkable career. He would despise the thought of Messi outlasting him and potentially surpassing his achievements while he relaxes in retirement in Madeira.
"I want to continue playing for several more years—though not many, I must be truthful," Ronaldo revealed in October 2025. "I'm still delivering quality performances, supporting my club and Portugal. So, why retire now?
"I'm confident that when it ends, I'll depart satisfied, knowing I gave everything. I understand I don't have many years remaining, but I strive to maximize the few I have left."
Ronaldo's future path remains unclear, but Messi's Inter Miami extension will undoubtedly motivate him during his career's final chapters.