Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has likened Cristiano Ronaldo to the biggest names in world sport, insisting the Portuguese icon is someone who stands out in the world of football.
The question on who is best between Messi and Ronaldo has raged in recent times but the Argentine superstar himself admitted his respect for the Juventus attacker.
Messi revealed he sees Ronaldo alongside other sport superstars in their chosen craft - likening him to Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and LeBron James.
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"There are many admirable athletes. Rafa Nadal, Federer, Lebron - in all sports there is always someone who stands out and is admirable for his work," Messi told La Sexta.