United States President Donald Trump referred to Cristiano Ronaldo as a "great guy" during a conversation with Lionel Messi at the White House.
MLS Cup champions Inter Miami visited Trump on Thursday to commemorate their historic title win in 2025, with Messi taking center stage ahead of teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul.
In December, Javier Mascherano's team won 3-1 against Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final, while Messi, named the most valuable player of the match, recorded two assists.
It has become a tradition for professional and college sports champions in the United States to be congratulated by the President.
During the ceremony, Trump also mentioned Luis Suarez, calling him "one of the greatest strikers of all time."
Messi also shook hands with Trump after being introduced to attendees inside the Oval Office at the White House.
"It is my privilege to say something that no other president has said before. Welcome, Lionel Messi, to the White House," Trump said.
The President of the United States went on to mention that his son, Barron Trump, is a big fan of Messi, as well as Cristiano Ronaldo.
"He (Barron) is a big fan of yours. He thinks you're a great person. He's a big admirer of yours, as well as of a gentleman called Ronaldo... Cristiano is extraordinary. Some great champions, some really great athletes in that sport," he continued.
In November last year, Trump hosted Ronaldo at the White House just a week after the Al-Nassr striker revealed what he would discuss with the President if they met in person.Telegrafi/
