During the NBA All-Star festivities held on Sunday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards created a storm of reactions by dismissing football legend Cristiano Ronaldo. Edwards, widely known as Ant-Man, wore a Lionel Messi Argentina jersey as he celebrated his Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, which he earned after leading the USA Stars to a decisive 47-21 win over the USA Stripes. His public disregard of Ronaldo intensified debates about the ongoing rivalry between the two football greats.
The All-Star MVP Expresses Preference in the Messi-Ronaldo Debate
Following his dominant performance on the court, Edwards took the opportunity to share his thoughts on the Messi versus Ronaldo discussion. When asked about Ronaldo, the Portuguese striker currently with Al-Nassr, Edwards delivered a playful but dismissive reply, sparking widespread attention across social media and sports outlets. By wearing the blue-and-white striped jersey of Argentina, Edwards visually sided with Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami captain and Major League Soccer icon, over the Saudi-based star.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who’s that? I can’t f*ck with him! Where does he play?
Edwards said in response to questions from reporters about the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Contrasts in Career Trajectories Highlighted by Edwards’ Comments
Edwards’ dismissive attitude underscores the diverging paths of both athletes in recent years. While Ronaldo maintains prolific scoring records in the Saudi Pro League, Messi has become a major cultural figure in the United States since his move to MLS. Combined, Messi and Ronaldo have won an unparalleled 13 Ballon d’Or awards, yet Edwards unmistakably showed his support for Messi’s impact on American soccer and culture during the All-Star weekend.
Edwards’ On-Court Dominance Solidifies His NBA Status
The significance of the weekend extended beyond Edwards’ soccer commentary. His outstanding performance not only secured the MVP trophy but also helped propel a youthful USA Stars team past a veterans-heavy USA Stripes roster that included LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard. By delivering a commanding blowout victory, Edwards reinforced his reputation as a rising star in the NBA while attracting attention beyond basketball circles.
Polarized Reactions from Fans and the Sports Community
Following Edwards’ remarks, fervent supporters of Ronaldo emphasized the Portuguese forward’s immense global popularity, while Messi fans lauded Edwards for his jersey choice and confident stance. Despite any backlash, Edwards seemed unfazed, using his elevated platform during the All-Star weekend to blend basketball prominence with ongoing international football rivalries. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, his visible preference for Messi and the Argentine Albiceleste ensures he remains a figure of interest in the intersection of global sports discourse.
