Magic Johnson Recalls Watching Messi and Ronaldo at Their Peak

The NBA legend reflects on witnessing the epic rivalry between the two soccer superstars.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:04pm

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Magic Johnson, the five-time NBA champion, recounted one of the greatest moments of his life - being able to fly to Madrid and watch Lionel Messi play against Cristiano Ronaldo live. Johnson praised the two soccer icons, who developed an epic rivalry that is widely considered among the greatest in sports history. Despite their peak years being behind them, with Messi now playing in MLS and Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, their star power continues to draw new fans to the sport.

Why it matters

The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo helped elevate soccer's popularity worldwide, much like the battles between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird elevated the NBA's profile in the 1980s. Their presence in the U.S. and Saudi leagues has continued to attract new fans to the sport in countries without deep soccer traditions, showcasing their enduring greatness.

The details

Messi and Ronaldo's rivalry spanned nearly 15 years, with the two superstars competing at the top of their game in Europe. Their star power has led to massive investments by the U.S. and Saudi leagues to lure them to spend the final chapters of their careers in those countries. Even now, their presence continues to draw new fans to the sport.

  • Messi recently hit 900 career goals, a feat that drew praise from Magic Johnson.
  • Last year's MLS Cup final drew 4.6 million viewers, ranking as the fifth most-watched sporting event in the U.S. and up 532% in social media impressions from the previous year.

The players

Lionel Messi

Widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, Messi recently signed with Inter Miami FC in MLS after a storied career in Europe.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Messi's long-time rival, Ronaldo is now playing in Saudi Arabia after a successful career in Europe.

Magic Johnson

The five-time NBA champion, who is known for elevating the NBA's popularity through his epic rivalries with players like Larry Bird.

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What they’re saying

“One of the greatest moments in my life was being able to fly to Madrid and watch Lionel Messi play against Cristiano Ronaldo live. It's a privilege to be able to witness two superstars at the top of their game compete.”

— Magic Johnson

The takeaway

The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, two of the greatest soccer players of all time, has had a lasting impact on the sport's popularity worldwide, much like the battles between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird elevated the NBA in the 1980s. Their continued presence in the U.S. and Saudi leagues demonstrates their enduring star power and ability to attract new fans to the sport.