NFL superstar Tom Brady has joined the never-ending Messi vs Ronaldo debate - by refusing to pick a side. When asked to choose between the two football icons during an appearance on Logan Paul's 'Impaulsive' YouTube channel, Brady took the diplomatic route.
"Messi or Ronaldo? God, that's hard. That's hard. I'm not even answering that question. I like them both too much," Brady said with a smile. This isn't the first time he's dodged this football hot potato either.
When popular streamer iShowSpeed asked Brady the same question last year, he gave a similar response: "I can't pick between them two." Seems like the seven-time Super Bowl champion knows better than to wade into football's most divisive debate!
Brady's Past Comments Hint at Messi Preference
Despite his current neutrality, Brady's past comments might reveal where his true loyalties lie. Back in 2018, the NFL legend had some special praise for the Argentine magician.
"I love Messi. He is a great player," Brady told Sports Illustrated. "I love soccer, I've watched it for a long time and I'm not old enough to have watched Maradona, that's probably for previous generations."
Brady even joked about bringing Messi to Birmingham City, where he's a minority owner. Commenting on David Beckham's Instagram post earlier this year, Brady playfully wrote: "I'm bringing Lionel Messi back to Birmingham with me. Sorry, David Beckham."
Beckham, of course, already brought Messi to Inter Miami in what's become one of football's biggest transfer coups. The Argentine's move to MLS has dramatically shifted betting markets in the American league, with Inter Miami now heavy favorites for the MLS Cup.
Messi on His Legendary Rivalry with Ronaldo
Messi himself has spoken warmly about his historic rivalry with Ronaldo. In a 2023 interview with L'Equipe, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner described their competition as "a great battle" that pushed them both to excel.
"We fed off each other's rivalry because we're both great competitors," Messi explained. "It was a very enjoyable time for both of us and for everyone who loves football."
The numbers speak for themselves - between them, Messi (8) and Ronaldo (5) have claimed 13 of the last 17 Ballon d'Or awards. Only Luka Modric, Karim Benzema, and Rodri have managed to break their duopoly.
While Brady might not pick sides, both players continue to defy age. Messi is lighting up MLS with Inter Miami at 37, while Ronaldo keeps scoring for fun with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia at 39.
Perhaps Brady, who played until 45 in the NFL, appreciates their longevity most of all. For bettors, both players remain reliable goalscorers in their respective leagues, making them safe bets for anytime goalscorer markets despite their advancing years.