Ronaldo Nazario has told the football world to “stop hiding” and “accept the fact” that Barcelona legend Lionel Messi is the best player of all time following his remarkable performance in the World Cup 2026.

Messi opened up his World Cup 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion with a hat-trick against Algeria, offering a reminder of his incredible talent even at the grand old age of 38. The Argentine maestro once again proved why he is considered the greatest footballer of all time with a masterclass performance that left fans and pundits in awe.

Ronaldo's Heartfelt Tribute

The Brazilian legend, who himself is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, left no doubt about Messi's GOAT status. “Records are made to be broken, and the person who breaks it doesn’t surprise any football fan in the world. Besides, Argentina is the current reigning champion of the competition,” Ronaldo said, per TyC Sports.

“Every time Messi steps onto the pitch, everything else becomes historic and elegant. It’s time for the world to stop hiding and accept the fact that he is the best player of all time.

“He continues to perform every season, and at the World Cup, yet there are still doubts about him. It’s an unforgettable and historic night that will go down in history forever.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Also Backs Messi

Former Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic echoed Ronaldo's sentiments, expressing his belief that we will never see another Messi.

“I don’t believe we’ll see another Messi, because he’s special,” he told Fox. “It’s something natural. It seems like football was made for him. Everything he touches turns to gold. And he has a team ready to die for him.

“Winning another World Cup won’t change his status as the greatest of all time. It will just be another trophy in the trophy room.”

Messi's hat-trick against Algeria not only propelled Argentina forward in their World Cup campaign but also served as a powerful reminder of why he remains the benchmark for excellence in football. At 38 years old, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to defy expectations and elevate the sport to new heights.

The footballing world seems to be reaching a consensus as legends of the game continue to pile praise on the Argentine superstar, cementing his legacy as the undisputed greatest player in the history of the sport.