Many people claim that Messi fans still haven’t moved on from past trolling, which is why they have no respect for Cristiano Ronaldo. Some even use phrases like “No Mercy, Never Forget, Never Forgive.” But here’s a simple question:
Did anyone ever ask Messi fans to stop trolling Ronaldo? Did Cristiano Ronaldo himself ever ask for sympathy?
The reality is that football rivalry has never been one-sided. Toxicity, memes, and trolling have existed on both sides for years. So it’s unfair to act as if only one fanbase created this culture.
Let’s look back at the history.
In 2012, Lionel Messi had four Ballon d’Or awards while Cristiano Ronaldo had only one. Ronaldo was constantly mocked for that.
Ronaldo’s tears after losing the UEFA Euro 2004 Final became a meme that was shared for years.
Memes comparing Messi’s four Ballon d’Or trophies to Ronaldo’s four Clear Men shampoo bottles were everywhere.
During Ronaldo’s early years at Real Madrid, he was repeatedly ridiculed for failing to win the UEFA Champions League, while Messi had already won multiple Champions League titles with Barcelona.
Even after Real Madrid won La Décima, some media outlets described it as a “lucky” or “hard-fought” victory, while Messi’s achievements were often presented with terms like “magical” or “genius.”
During the one-minute silence for Johan Cruyff at Camp Nou, offensive chants directed at Ronaldo were heard from sections of the crowd.
Ronaldo’s personal life, Cristiano Jr.’s mother, false accusations, and even his family were frequently targeted through insulting memes and personal attacks.
The purpose of mentioning these examples is not to blame an entire fanbase. It is simply to remind everyone that football toxicity did not begin with Ronaldo supporters. The rivalry has always gone both ways.
Many Ronaldo fans simply responded to years of criticism and trolling. That doesn’t justify personal abuse from either side, but it does explain why emotions became so intense. Respect should always come before rivalry.
As a Portugal supporter, I have always known that winning major international tournaments would never be easy. This time, the expectations were higher, but football doesn’t always reward hope. Sometimes, you simply have to accept reality.
Regardless of results, one thing remains unchanged.
Cristiano Ronaldo has built one of the greatest careers in football history through relentless hard work, discipline, consistency, and an unmatched winning mentality.
Trophies can be won or lost. Records may eventually be broken. But the legacy of dedication, resilience, and self-belief that Cristiano Ronaldo has created will continue to inspire millions around the world.
Respect the rivalry. Respect greatness. Respect football.
Viva Cristiano Ronaldo. Viva Portugal.