Close-up of Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham with serious expressions, one with short hair and the other with a beard and jacket.

David Beckham, 50, on Cristiano Ronaldo: 'If he thinks he's the best...'

David Beckham surprises with his response during an interview and reignites a debate that never goes out of style

David Beckham has reignited the eternal soccer debate with a statement that hasn't left anyone indifferent. The former British footballer spoke with complete clarity about Cristiano Ronaldo and what he really thinks about the place he holds among the greats of the sport. His words have not only caused anticipation, but they've also sparked a new wave of reactions among fans.

Amid the family controversies that have surrounded him for months, Beckham has surprised everyone. The former footballer, who is usually very discreet, has surprised everyone by speaking out on a topic that continues to divide the soccer world. 

Soccer player wearing a white uniform with yellow details from a Saudi team looking forward during a sporting event
Beckham speaks out forcefully for the first time about who, in his opinion, is the best in the world | Instagram, @cristiano

An endless debate that divides soccer

For more than a decade, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have starred in one of the most intense sports rivalries of all time. Their numbers, titles, and playing styles have fueled the conversation among fans, experts, and former footballers. Each one represents a different way of understanding soccer, but both have reached indisputable greatness.

Over the years, many sports figures have taken sides, further increasing the media attention on the debate. Social media have been the main stage where millions of followers passionately defend their idol. Even the footballers themselves have shown their stance in interviews or public statements.

Although there are those who try to avoid the comparison, it's almost impossible to ignore it. Messi and Cristiano's careers have run in parallel and their achievements have constantly overlapped. This rivalry has defined a golden era in soccer and it's unlikely anything like it will happen again.

Beckham breaks his silence in the debate that divides the soccer world

Amid the eternal debate about who is the greatest player of all time, David Beckham has broken his silence. Although he usually keeps out of controversies, this time he answered sincerely when asked directly. His response has made headlines around the world.

Beckham, who currently presides over Inter Miami, praised Lionel Messi without reservation. He stated that the Argentine is "the best player in the world and of all time," making his stance clear. Despite his closeness to Cristiano Ronaldo in the past, he didn't hesitate to choose his favorite.

Even so, Beckham wanted to make it clear that his opinion isn't meant to diminish Cristiano Ronaldo's career. With respect and a conciliatory tone, he stated: "If he believes he's the best, then he is," valuing his ambition and achievements. Still, he stood firm in his stance and didn't hesitate to point to Lionel Messi as the true number one.

A man with a beard and short hair dressed in a suit and tie smiles in front of a neutral background.
Beckham praises Cristiano but keeps his firm opinion about the Argentine | Instagram, @davidbeckham

David Beckham didn't want to further fuel the debate between Messi and Cristiano, but he didn't dodge the question either. With his response, he sought to recognize the greatness of both without pitting them directly against each other. For him, each player has defined a different era and has left an indelible mark on the history of soccer.

Despite his evident admiration for Messi, Beckham showed absolute respect for Cristiano Ronaldo. His intervention was elegant and diplomatic, making it clear that one can have an opinion without belittling others.