Xavi Criticized by Ronaldo Over Messi Praise: 'Never Won Ballon d'Or'

Cristiano Ronaldo publicly criticized Xavi on 12 Jul 2026 after the Spanish legend praised Lionel Messi as the superior player. Following Real Madrid's 5-2 victory over Osasuna, Ronaldo dismissed Xavi's remarks, highlighting his lack of a Ballon d'Or despite club and international success.

Xavi, speaking to Cadena SER earlier in the week, asserted Messi's dominance over Ronaldo: "Ronaldo is extraordinary but compared to Messi, there can be no comparisons." The comments came during a discussion about the greatest players of their generation. Xavi, who won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues with Barcelona, has long been a vocal supporter of his former teammate Messi.

While Xavi never won the Ballon d'Or, his trophy cabinet includes a World Cup (2010), European Championship (2008, 2012), and 30 major honors with Barcelona. The 43-year-old earned 133 caps for Spain but finished second in Ballon d'Or voting three times (2009, 2010, 2011), trailing Messi and Ronaldo.

Ronaldo, who has three Ballon d'Or awards to Messi's five, claimed: "I'm the most searched player on the internet. Anyone who wants publicity talks about me." The Portuguese star's comments reflect the enduring rivalry between the two players, often debated by fans and pundits alike.

As a key architect of Barcelona's dominance alongside Messi, Xavi's perspective carries weight. His assertion that Messi is "pretty much the best player in history" aligns with widespread consensus, though Ronaldo's counterargument emphasizes individual accolades versus team success.

The verbal clash adds fuel to the long-standing debate, with no resolution in sight. While Xavi has retired from active play, his status as a football icon ensures his opinions remain influential in shaping discourse around the sport's greatest figures.