Magnus Carlsen’s Message to Cristiano Ronaldo: What he said to CR7 ?

Chandan

Published on: 12 July 2025

Magnus Carlsen’s message to Cristiano Ronaldo

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen once shared an interesting anecdote about Cristiano Ronaldo. During an interview conducted by Real Madrid, Carlsen was asked about his favourite footballer. Initially, he named another player, but the interviewer requested him to repeat his answer and name Ronaldo. Carlsen admitted that although he is a fan of Ronaldo’s achievements, his personal preference has always been more inclined towards Lionel Messi, whom he considers a more complete and creative footballer.

This revelation shows Carlsen’s honesty and his respect for both football legends. While Ronaldo’s work ethic and success inspire millions, Carlsen emphasised that Messi’s natural talent and playmaking abilities impress him more. His comments made the long-standing Ronaldo vs Messi debate more interesting.

The Message That Turned Heads

Carlsen has frequently shown his respect and adoration for Cristiano Ronaldo in interviews and on social media. Despite not being an official letter or speech, the message struck a deep chord with supporters of both sports. Among his most frequently cited remarks against Ronaldo is:

“The greatest football player of all time is Cristiano Ronaldo.”

In addition to Ronaldo’s amazing goal-scoring record, Carlsen commended him for his unwavering work ethic, mental toughness, and capacity for high-pressure play—qualities that are similar to what it takes to dominate at the top level of chess.

Mutual Respect Across Sports

While Ronaldo hasn’t publicly spoken directly to Carlsen, this crossover of mutual admiration between intellectual and athletic winners is a reminder that excellence crosses no bounds. Greatness is driven by passion, discipline, and an unwavering determination to be the best, whether on the football field or the chessboard.

But Why Ronaldo?

The “fighting spirit” and “desire to always develop” of Ronaldo were cited by Carlsen as the reasons he favors him over other football players like Lionel Messi. In Ronaldo, an athlete who has overcome time, critics, and the odds to stay at the top, Carlsen, who has spent years perfecting a cerebral game, obviously sees a kindred spirit.

Profile: Magnus Carlsen

Born on 30 November 1990 in Tønsberg, Norway, Sven Magnus Oen Carlsen is considered one of the greatest chess players in history. A chess genius, Carlsen became a Grandmaster at the age of 13 and quickly rose to the top with his sharp strategic skills and deep understanding of the game.

He became the World Chess Champion in 2013 defeating Viswanathan Anand and defended his title several times. Known for his versatility, Carlsen excels in classical, rapid and blitz formats, making him a complete player across all time controls. At his peak, he achieved a rating of 2882, the highest ever rating in chess history.

Beyond the chessboard, Carlsen is known for his love of sports, particularly football. A lifelong supporter of Real Madrid, he often draws parallels between chess and football, praising strategy, creativity and discipline. His unique personality, competitive spirit, and dominance in the chess world have earned him global recognition as the “Mozart of Chess”.

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