Ronaldo on Messi: 'The competition between us is a motivating factor'

In the umpteenth reminder that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi benefit from competing against one another, the Portuguese superstar - who edged out the Argentine phenom to capture his second consecutive FIFA Ballon d'Or earlier this month - insists their rivalry is a motivating factor for both players.

It's hard for a single day to pass without someone chiming in on the endless debate over the planet's top footballer, but hearing one player's opinion on the other always makes for interesting conversation that goes beyond the usual banter.

"I'm sure that the competition between us is a motivating factor for him too," Ronaldo told AS. "It's good for me, for him and for other players who are keen to grow. Messi has four Ballon d'Or awards, I have three. This is all good for the world of football."

Ronaldo and Messi will next have the chance to motivate each other directly on the pitch when Barcelona meets Real Madrid on March 22 at the Camp Nou.