Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have long been the epitome of football greatness, but their recent performances in the 2024 tournaments suggest it might be time to consider retirement while their legacies remain untarnished. Despite their storied careers, both legends have struggled to score in the UEFA Euro and Copa America this year, raising questions about their continued presence on the international stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal drought in Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo, representing Portugal at UEFA Euro 2024, is experiencing an unusual dry spell. Renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, Ronaldo has netted a staggering 14 goals in Euro appearances from 2004 to 2020, making him the top scorer in the competition’s history.
Not only that, Ronaldo who is playing his record sixth edition of the tournament, has scored in all previous five ones, However, in the current tournament, he has yet to find the back of the net. This lack of goals is not just surprising but also highlights the inevitable decline that comes with age.
Lionel Messi yet to score in Copa America 2024
Similarly, Lionel Messi, competing in Copa America 2024 with Argentina, has also failed to open his account in this year’s tournament. Messi, who has scored 13 goals in Copa America throughout his career, has been a pivotal figure for his national team in past tournaments. Yet, his inability to score in the ongoing competition underscores the physical limitations and challenges he faces as he ages.
Both Ronaldo and Messi have defied expectations for years, consistently performing at the highest level well into their 30s. Their dedication, skill, and determination have set them apart, earning them countless accolades and the adoration of fans worldwide. However, the current tournaments have shown that even the greatest athletes are not immune to the ravages of time.
