When Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister explained why 'Messi' is a forbidden word in their household

Back in 2018, the sister of Cristiano Ronaldo, Katia Ronaldo, shared the reason why they avoid discussing the forward's longtime rival, Lionel Messi, within the family.

Ronaldo and Messi have engaged in one of the most legendary sporting rivalries for over a decade.

The duo are universally acclaimed as the two greatest players in the history of the game.

The peak of their greatest-of-all-time (GOAT) rivalry coincided with Ronaldo's tenure at Real Madrid and Messi's time at Barcelona.

Given the eternal rivalry between these two iconic clubs, the competition between the Al-Nassr star and Inter Miami captain was heightened.

Nevertheless, within the confines of their home, Ronaldo and his family adhered to a strict rule: they refrained from mentioning the name of the Argentine maestro.

In 2018, Ronaldo's sister, Katia, provided insight into this practice, explaining that their home serves as the Portuguese icon's sanctuary, where discussions of the outside world are avoided.

She said via GOAL:

"We don't talk about Messi at home. Cristiano knows that behind the door, there is a whirlwind. And that when he goes through the door from the outside to the inside, he is protected. That's where that he recharges all his batteries."
Ronaldo and Messi have shattered countless records throughout their careers, amassing all major individual and team accolades.

Their combined goal tally exceeds 1600 for both club and country, and they've collectively secured a remarkable total of 13 Ballon d'Or awards, per Sportskeeda.

Ronaldo 'obsessed' with Messi

Meanwhile, a devoted Lionel Messi fan has provided evidence allegedly suggesting that Cristiano Ronaldo is deeply fixated on the Argentine legend.

The Argentine was honoured with his eighth Ballon d'Or accolade on Monday evening, surpassing his main competitors, Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

In light of Messi's recent accomplishment, a social media fan has curated a series of posts aimed at demonstrating that his longtime rival, Ronaldo, harbours a deep fascination with the Barcelona legend.