Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two football legends, continue to ignite discussions among fans about their enduring rivalry, particularly after they both shared gym selfies closely timed with each other.

During their golden days at Barcelona and Real Madrid, Messi and Ronaldo were at the forefront of football, dominating both team competitions and individual awards like the Ballon d’Or. In 2023, fans speculate that their rivalry might still be alive, as suggested by their recent social media posts.

Ronaldo recently uploaded a gym selfie on Instagram, a day following a similar post by Messi. Messi’s photo, featuring him and his wife Antonela post-workout, flaunted his toned physique. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, currently in the MLS off-season with Inter Miami, consistently maintains his fitness level, as seen in an earlier video shared by his wife, where he trains with celebrity fitness expert Bret Contreras.

Contreras, known as ‘the Glute Guy’, was seen rigorously training Messi, highlighting that even top athletes receive no leniency in their workouts. Meanwhile, Ronaldo, who is actively competing with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, also exhibited his fitness in his Instagram post, amid preparing for an upcoming match against Al-Taawoon.

Fans have noticed the timing of these posts, sparking debates over whether this signifies an ongoing rivalry. Some believe Ronaldo’s post is a direct response to Messi’s, admiring their commitment to staying in peak condition. Others, however, feel the timing is merely coincidental, pointing out that Ronaldo has a long history of sharing his fitness regime online.