United States President Donald Trump namedropped Cristiano Ronaldo while praising Lionel Messi during the star footballer’s maiden visit to the White House on Thursday. Messi was at White House along with his Inter Miami teammates as they were honoured by Trump for winning the 2025 MLS Cup.

Under Messi’s guidance, Inter Miami won their first-ever MLS Cup in December 2025, while the Argentine star has become the first player to win the MLS Most Valuable Player award in back-to-back seasons.

Trump honours Messi, says Ronaldo is great

While honouring Messi, Trump revealed that his son Barron is a big fan of the former Barcelona forward.

“It’s my privilege to say what no other president has ever said before, welcome to the White House Lionel Messi,” said Trump. “He (Barron) is a big fan of yours.

However, soon after, Trump added that Barron is also a big fan of Ronaldo, and that Portuguese star is also a massive star just like Messi.

“He thinks you’re just a great person. He’s a tremendous fan of yours, as well as a gentleman named Ronaldo.

“Cristiano is a great, some big champions, some great, great athletes in that sport.”

President Trump: “Today, we’re thrilled to host the 2025 MLS Cup Champions, Inter Miami…It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before—welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi!” pic.twitter.com/iatxKLkRyS

— CSPAN (@cspan) March 5, 2026

The video of the incident is going viral on social media. Interestingly, Messi can be seen enjoying the moment as he offers a wide smile while Trump talks in front of him.

While continuing his praise for Messi, Trump added: “Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career – the most of all time.

“You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.”

Trump went on to add that he feels Messi is probably even better than Brazilian legend Pelé.

“I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pelé play. I don’t know, you may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good,” Trump said.

While Lionel Messi has won the prestigious Ballon d’Or eight times in his career, Cristiano Ronaldo has lifted the trophy on five occasions. Ronaldo was Messi’s biggest competitor during their prime years, and both footballers have extremely loyal fans who do not like their favourite being bunched together with others.