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| Messi meets with President Donald Trump. PH๏τo: Reuters. |
During a special ceremony at the White House on the morning of March 6th (Vietnam time) to honor Inter Miami’s victory in the 2025 MLS Cup, President Donald Trump showered praise on top football stars. Notably, while chatting with Messi, Trump unexpectedly mentioned Ronaldo.
Trump said: “My son Barron is a fan of yours. He thinks you’re a great person. Barron is a big fan of yours, and another gentleman named Cristiano Ronaldo too. Cristiano is also fantastic. Top champions, great athletes of this sport.”
Upon hearing Trump mention Ronaldo, Messi, standing nearby, smiled. In November 2025, the US President also hosted Ronaldo at the White House. The meeting took place shortly after the Al Nᴀssr striker expressed his desire to meet the US President in an interview with journalist Piers Morgan.
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| Messi’s reaction to President Trump praising Ronaldo. |
Besides Ronaldo, Mr. Trump also mentioned the legendary Pele and compared the former Brazilian star to Messi. “I don’t know, maybe he’s better. Who’s better?” Mr. Trump asked, turning to the players.
Then, the US President smiled and added, “I think it’s him,” pointing to Messi.
Besides Messi, President Trump also praised the stars of Inter Miami. He specifically mentioned Luis Suarez, calling the Uruguayan striker “one of the greatest strikers of all time.”
This was Messi’s first visit to the White House and meeting with the US President. Previously, Leo missed a meeting with former President Joe Biden in January 2025, despite being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest honors in the US.