Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have reignited the long-standing debate over who is the greatest soccer player of all time. After nearly two decades of dominance at the top of world football, the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) has weighed in—making its final verdict between the two icons.
The IFFHS, a Zurich-based organization founded in 1984, is widely recognized for chronicling the history and statistical records of association football. Over the years, it has become one of the most respected institutions in global soccer.
On May 17, the IFFHS released its list of the “Men’s Historical All-Time World Best Players: Top 10,” officially naming Lionel Messi as the greatest soccer player in history. Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, was ranked fourth.
The Inter Miami star topped a list filled with legends of the game. He was followed by Pele and Diego Maradona, who both placed ahead of Ronaldo. Notably, neither Pele nor Maradona ever won the Ballon d’Or—due to the award’s former restriction to European players only.
The full top 10 is rounded out by Johan Cruyff, Ronaldo Nazario, Zinedine Zidane, Franz Beckenbauer, Alfredo Di Stefano, and Ronaldinho. Despite being the youngest player on the list, Messi’s record-breaking career—with the most official trophies in history (46) and a record eight Ballon d’Or awards—helped cement his place at the top.
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Messi and the rivalry with Ronaldo
In modern soccer, the GOAT debate has largely become a two-man race: Messi or Ronaldo. Their rivalry defined an era in the sport, with few players able to match their consistent brilliance over more than a decade.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Messi reflected on what their historic competition meant to him: “It was always a ‘battle,’ in quotes. On the sporting side, it was really beautiful. We pushed each other because we’re both extremely competitive. He always wanted to win at everything, in every way.
“It was a great time for us and for people who love football in general. I think what we achieved over such a long period deserves a lot of credit,” he added. “As the saying goes, it’s easy to get there, but the hard part is staying. We stayed at the top for 10, 15 years. It was incredible and a great memory for everyone who enjoys football,” Messi ended.
