For nearly two decades, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been locked in an endless debate over goals, trophies, and individual honors. Now, as both enter the twilight of their careers, the final question is not who is better, but who will retire first.
Messi, now 39, took a significant step toward the end after Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. He officially retired from international soccer, finishing his Albiceleste career with 125 goals in 207 appearances. Yet he remains active with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 MLS season, potentially keeping him on the pitch until he turns 41.
Ronaldo, despite being two years older, is still playing for Al-Nassr at 41. But his own words make him the favorite to walk away first. In August, he said the 2026-27 campaign would “probably” be his final season. His contract with the Saudi club expires in June 2027, and he has already confirmed that the 2026 World Cup was his last. One massive milestone could still influence his timing: he currently has 976 career goals, just 24 shy of 1,000. Reaching that number would provide a natural finish to a career that began professionally in 2002. Ronaldo has also mentioned plans for retirement, including traveling and enjoying life away from the pitch.
Messi's timeline: More seasons, but doubts remain
On paper, Messi has more time left. If he fulfills his entire Inter Miami deal, he has more than two seasons of club soccer ahead, potentially playing until late 2028. His recent performances suggest he can still compete at a high level. Just days after retiring from Argentina, he returned to Miami action as one of MLS's joint leading scorers with 18 goals.
However, contracts do not guarantee retirement dates. Messi has acknowledged doubts about how much longer he wants to continue, while Ronaldo has been more explicit about this being his last season. Based on what both have said and their current contracts, Cristiano Ronaldo appears more likely to retire first, possibly in 2027. Messi could follow in 2028, but after already saying goodbye to Argentina, his final countdown has clearly begun.
The rivalry that defined an era is now a race to the finish line. For fans across Latin America and the world, watching these two legends bow out will be bittersweet. Whether it's Ronaldo's pursuit of 1,000 goals or Messi's final MLS campaign, the end of an era is near.
For more on Messi's post-playing plans, check out his move to buy CD Eldense. And for a look at how Argentina is coping without him, see the challenge of replacing his No. 10.
