Cristiano Ronaldo finally got on the scoresheet at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he had little interest in discussing Lionel Messi afterward.
Fresh off scoring twice in Portugal's 5-0 victory on Tuesday (June 23), Ronaldo shut down a question about Messi when a reporter began referencing the Argentina captain's historic performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"Next question," Ronaldo replied before the reporter could finish.
The moment came just days after Messi made history by becoming the men's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 18 goals, surpassing Germany legend Miroslav Klose. Messi currently leads the Golden Boot race with five goals through Argentina's first two matches.
Ronaldo, however, appeared more focused on Portugal's bounce-back performance and his own return to the scoresheet after a frustrating start to the tournament.
The 41-year-old netted both goals in the rout of Uzbekistan, marking his first goals of the 2026 World Cup after being held scoreless in Portugal's opening draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking after the match, Ronaldo admitted the period between games had been difficult.
"It was a difficult, dark week. It felt like I was already retired from football," Ronaldo said. "But I held on, like I always do, because I believe in work more than anything else."
The Portugal captain said he never lost faith and credited his teammates for helping him regain momentum.
"I knew my teammates were going to help me, too. It was difficult, I have to admit, but we're back. I'm very happy," he added.
Ronaldo's brace also secured another milestone. He became the first men's player to score in six different World Cup tournaments, adding yet another record to his résumé.
Still, he downplayed the individual accomplishment.
"Records are always nice to break, but my goal is to help the national team achieve its objectives," Ronaldo said. "The most important thing was the team's work and the confidence we had."
Later in the press conference, another reporter asked if he could pose a question, prompting a playful warning from Ronaldo.
"That depends on the question, otherwise I won't answer you," he joked.
Although he wasn't interested in discussing Messi's achievements, Ronaldo did briefly address the possibility of a dream World Cup final between Portugal and Argentina.
"I don't know what to answer. It's a question that doesn't make much sense," Ronaldo said. "But, well, it would be top."
