Omotayo Fashola
Former U.S. President Donald Trump surprised fans by discussing football icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Pelé during Lionel Messi’s historic White House visit last Thursday.
Messi and his Inter Miami teammates made their debut appearance at the presidential residence to celebrate their MLS Cup victory—the first major trophy in the club’s brief history.
The encounter followed Ronaldo’s White House dinner last November, sparking playful comparisons between the two modern legends.
Trump shared a humorous moment, recounting: “My son excitedly asked, ‘Dad, do you know who’s coming today?’ I casually replied, ‘No, I’ve got plenty on my plate.’ Then he revealed, ‘Messi!’”
“My boy is passionate about soccer,” Trump continued. “He admires both you and Cristiano tremendously—both extraordinary athletes in their own right.”
The former president ignited debate by playfully pitting Messi against Brazilian icon Pelé, shouting to attendees: “Some might argue you’ve surpassed Pelé—what do you all think?”
President Trump shares a hilarious story about Barron meeting Messi:
“My kid practically screamed ‘MESSI!’ when he found out who was visiting—meanwhile I’m juggling presidential duties!” 😂 pic.twitter.com/53iPp0y87L— johnny maga (@johnnymaga) March 6, 2026
El histórico encuentro entre Messi y Trump en la Casa Blanca generó momentos memorables, especialmente cuando el expresidente cuestionó a la audiencia: “¿Quién es más grande: Messi o el legendario Pelé?” ¡Un debate que sigue dividiendo al mundo del fútbol! pic.twitter.com/BrXyj7yR74
— LA NACION (@LANACION) March 5, 2026
