Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo got a chance to weigh in on the Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo debate during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.
Antetokounmpo said when asked about the topic during Saturday’s All-Star media day that he felt Messi was the better overall player, but that he could relate more to Ronaldo.
“I think Messi is a pure talent, pure talent, and with hard work and discipline throughout his career of being in the top is probably, maybe, the best player of all time,” Antetokounmpo said.
“But for me, I relate, and I get closer to people that I’m similar to them. Like, hard work, discipline, take care of your body, be consistent for many years. He’s 41 years old now, right? 41 years old, still playing the high level. So, my mindset is closer to Cristiano Ronaldo mindset.”
Antetokounmpo went on to weigh Messi and Ronaldo’s career accomplishments.
“Eight Ballon d’Ors, five Ballon d’Ors. World Cup, not the World Cup. Five Champions League, [four] Champions League. It’s what you prefer,” Antetokounmpo said. “And the most important thing, once you get to that point that you say, ‘Messi or Ronaldo,’ you already won. I wish I get to a point that they say, ‘Jordan or Giannis.'”
Antetokounmpo is a soccer fan who has previously said he was a fan of Arsenal growing up. He recently announced his investment in the English women’s club Chelsea Women.
The injured Bucks star, who hasn’t played since Jan. 23, has been present at All-Star Weekend but won’t be playing when the All-Star Game tips off Sunday at 5 p.m. ET.