Cristiano Ronaldo shared a motivational message on social media moments after Lionel Messi bagged FIFA The Best Men’s Player of the Year Award.

• Ronaldo’s message after Messi’s triumph
• Messi won FIFA The Best Men’s Player of the Year Award
• Ronaldo set to face Messi on February 1

WHAT HAPPENED?

After bagging the Ballon d’Or for the eighth time in his career last October, the World Cup-winning Argentina captain has now won the FIFA The Best Men’s Player of the Year Award for a record third time on Monday. Following the announcement, his long-time rival – who was not a part of the final voting process – posted on social media.

WHAT CRISTIANO RONALDO POSTED

Ronaldo dropped a post on Instagram where he shared his own image with a motivational caption that read, “Back for more! 💪🏽”

GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

The Portuguese talisman enjoyed a stellar run of form in 2023 as he scored a record 54 goals in the calendar year while playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. The 38-year-old pipped the likes of Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland to become the highest men’s goalscorer of the year.

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

The two icons of world football will soon meet each other in a friendly game as Al-Nassr and Inter Miami are set to lock horns in the Riyadh Cup on February 1.