Brazilian icon Rivaldo left an indelible mark on world soccer, headlined by a World Cup title in 2002 with the Seleção during the first tournament co-hosted by South Korea and Japan. A left-footed magician, Rivaldo also starred for clubs like FC Barcelona and AC Milan, capturing prestigious honors including the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup.
After sharing the pitch with countless stars throughout a career that spanned more than two decades—ending in 2015 with Mogi Mirim Esporte Clube—Rivaldo finally gave his verdict on who he considers the greatest of all time. In May 2019, he made it clear: Lionel Messi.
“I don’t think Barcelona will ever have a player like Messi in their history. He’s unique and the best player in the world,” Rivaldo said during a press conference following Barca’s 3–0 win over Liverpool in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal.
At the time, Rivaldo didn’t just praise the Argentine star—he confidently predicted a clean sweep of the major individual awards later that year. “Honestly, I don’t see anyone this season who can challenge him for the top individual awards—and it’s only May! He’s going to win everything… everything: Ballon d’Or, FIFA World Player…” he added.
Lionel Messi of Barcelona celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final against Liverpool. (Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
True to Rivaldo’s prediction, Messi ended up claiming the Ballon d’Or, FIFA’s The Best award, the Golden Shoe, and La Liga’s Pichichi Trophy for top scorer.
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Rivaldo’s admiration for Messi didn’t end there. Ahead of the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, he once again voiced his support—this time on social media, after Argentina’s commanding semifinal win over Croatia.
“You deserved to be World Champion before, but God knows all things and will crown you this Sunday. You deserve this title for the person you are and for the wonderful soccer you’ve always played. I take my hat off to you. May God bless you,” Rivaldo wrote alongside a photo of Messi celebrating.
The post went viral—and just days later, Messi delivered an iconic performance in the final to lift the World Cup trophy for the first time, solidifying Rivaldo’s belief that the Argentine deserves to be considered the greatest of all time.
