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Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent remarks comparing Ligue 1 to the Saudi Pro League have sparked controversy in France, leading to a sharp response that highlighted one of Lionel Messi’s most significant achievements—the World Cup victory.
Leo Messi jugando con 38 grados 🌟🇦🇷🐐 pic.twitter.com/2AWglqm8zk
— Ligue 1 Español (@Ligue1_ESP) December 28, 2024
The controversy began on Friday at an awards ceremony in Dubai when Ronaldo was asked to compare the French league, regarded as one of the top five leagues globally, with the Saudi Pro League, which has gained traction recently by investing heavily in international stars, particularly veteran players.
Ronaldo boldly declared:
“The Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France is only Paris Saint-Germain. The rest is finished.”
Ronaldo Defends His Claim
The Portuguese star elaborated on his statement, saying:
“If you don’t believe me, try sprinting at 38, 39, or 40 degrees Celsius (100–104°F), and you’ll see.”
Cristiano Ronaldo na premiação do "Globe Soccer."
— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) December 27, 2024
“A Liga Saudita é melhor que a Ligue 1, claro. Tente correr em um clima de 38, 39, 40 graus e veja. A França só tem PSG. O resto está terminado.”
📽️: @Globe_Soccer pic.twitter.com/S3yn1kfvFJ
Ligue 1’s Witty Response
Ligue 1 didn’t hold back in its response. On its Spanish-language social media account, the league posted a cheeky rebuttal featuring Lionel Messi holding the 2022 World Cup trophy alongside his award for the tournament’s best player. The caption read: “Leo Messi playing with 38°,” accompanied by a star emoji, the Argentine flag, and the GOAT emoji—a direct jab at Ronaldo’s remarks and a nod to Messi’s standing as the greatest of all time.
Notably, the temperatures during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, held in winter, were far more comfortable, averaging around 25°C (77°F).
The Global Reaction
The exchange ignited widespread debate, with fans and pundits weighing in on Ronaldo’s comments and Ligue 1’s sharp retort. While the controversy raged online, Ronaldo celebrated his wins at the Dubai awards, taking home the titles of ‘Best Player in the Middle East’ and ‘Best Goal Scorer of All Time.’