By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Cristiano Ronaldo has reached out to longtime football rival Lionel Messi with a message of support following the death of Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, aged 68.

Ronaldo responded to an emotional tribute Messi shared on social media after his father’s death, offering condolences to the Argentine superstar and his family.

“A huge hug to you and your loved ones during these difficult times, Leo. Stay strong,” Ronaldo wrote.

Jorge Messi died in Rosario, Argentina, on August 7, 2026, after a period of ill health. He played a significant role in his son’s life and career, serving as his father, representative and adviser from Messi’s early days in Argentina through his rise to global football stardom.

Messi, 39, responded to the loss with an emotional tribute in which he reflected on his father’s influence and the enormous void left by his death. He also acknowledged uncertainty about continuing his playing career for much longer without his father by his side.

The Argentine captain revealed that his father’s wish was one of the reasons he decided to play at the 2026 World Cup. Messi said he wanted Jorge to see him compete in what could be his final tournament, although his father was unable to be there.

Messi went on to help Argentina reach the World Cup final, where they lost 1-0 to Spain.

Ronaldo’s message has drawn attention because of the extraordinary rivalry between the two players, who dominated world football for more than a decade while representing Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively.

The pair faced each other numerous times during their careers and became central figures in one of football’s most celebrated individual rivalries. Yet Ronaldo has previously said the rivalry was over and that they had moved beyond the intense competition that defined their careers.