Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed his unlikely inspiration - Lionel Messi.
The Ballon d'Or winner , 29, and Argentine superstar Messi have battled it out for the title of the world's best footballer for the best part of a decade.
Ronaldo says that his desire to stay at the top is, in part, due to his Barcelona rival .
The two players have shared the last seven Ballon d'Or awards between them - Messi has four compared to Portugal skipper Ronaldo's three, although the Real ace picked up the latest installment of the award.
"I’m sure that the competition between us is a motivating factor for him too," He told French magazine France Football.
"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."
Prior to the gala a week ago Messi was asked how he would feel about the prospect of linking up with his biggest rival one day and he was keen on the idea.
