With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to participate in the upcoming Copa America and UEFA European Championships this summer, the watching world are wondering if the legendary duo will be able to perform on the international stage again.
Messi is entering his first tournament since guiding Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022, meanwhile Cristiano Ronaldo is looking to lift his second European Championship after success in 2016.
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Many believe that the pair will find it difficult to recapture their previously high levels of performance on the international stage, mostly due to the fact both are playing in minor leagues in MLS and the Saudi Pro League.
Furthermore, both are of an age where their physical powers are on the wane, despite the fact Ronaldo finished as the top-scorer in the Saudi Pro League last term.
Stuart Holden, a FOX Sports soccer broadcaster, believes it’s premature to consider the careers of these icons over.
“I don’t want to bet against these guys,” he declared to Fox News Digital.
“Staying healthy and performing at a high level is crucial. Their ability to perform under pressure is astonishing.”
A lack of injuries have allowed Messi and Ronaldo to keep playing
Ronaldo maintains the physique of a much younger athlete, while Messi adapts his game to his physical condition, retaining his speed, acceleration, and finishing ability.
Holden predicts both players will still be active when the World Cup comes to the United States in 2026, an event that is set to be a showpiece to be remembered for a generation.
“If we can ride this Messi vs. Ronaldo comparison, which likely motivates them, there’s no reason they can’t continue playing at a high level for many years,” Holden concluded.
