Cristiano Ronaldo reaction to Barcelona star Lamine Yamal’s comments at the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards offered a glimpse into the respect shared between football generations.
Yamal, 18, won the Best Forward and Best U23 Men’s Player awards at the ceremony in Dubai, and during his acceptance speech, he made a point to praise the Portuguese icon.
“In the end, it’s best not to compare yourself to anyone,” Yamal said.
“Players like Cristiano Ronaldo did what they did because they wanted to be themselves and not compare themselves to others. I want to build my own path.”
The camera panned to Ronaldo, sitting alongside his fiancée Georgina Rodriguez, and the Al-Nassr forward’s smile and nod indicated his approval.
This moment of mutual admiration underscored the enduring influence Ronaldo has on rising stars while highlighting Yamal’s maturity and respect for football legends.
Yamal’s Breakthrough Season
The Barcelona winger enjoyed a remarkable year, securing three trophies including the La Liga title.
Yamal also came close to winning the Nations League with Spain, only to be narrowly defeated by Ronaldo’s Portugal on penalties.
At just 18, Yamal’s achievements underline his emergence as one of the world’s most promising young players.
Winning the Globe Soccer awards for Best Forward and Best U23 Men’s Player cements his reputation and highlights the exciting potential he brings to both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
Ronaldo’s Continued Admiration for Yamal
Ronaldo, meanwhile, had a successful night himself, winning Best Middle Eastern Player and the Top Goalscorer of All Time awards.
Despite his own accolades, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has been vocal about Yamal’s talent and potential.
Ahead of the Nations League final in June, Ronaldo called Yamal a “phenomenon” and warned against undue pressure on the youngster.
“He’s going to win a lot of titles, both collective and individual,” Ronaldo said.
“He’s only 17 years old… a kid with a lot of room for improvement. He is a phenomenon, but we have to leave him alone. He has a very long career ahead and will surely win the Nations League many times.”
Ronaldo also praised Spain’s national team environment, which nurtures young talent like Yamal.
“He’s got huge potential. I see a lot of talent. He will be the best player of this new generation,” Ronaldo said on his YouTube channel, UR.
Mutual Respect Across Generations
The interaction between Ronaldo and Yamal illustrates the respect that exists between established football stars and the next generation.
Yamal’s measured praise and Ronaldo’s visible approval reinforce the notion that young players can admire legends while forging their own paths in football.
The focus on individuality, respect, and learning from the icons of the sport makes this moment particularly memorable.
Ronaldo’s reaction speaks volumes about his recognition of talent and willingness to encourage young stars rather than compete with them off the pitch.
The Next Encounter: World Cup 2026
Football fans may get another opportunity to see these two stars face off during the 2026 World Cup.
Spain, as reigning European champions, and Portugal, with Ronaldo seeking what could be his final chance at football’s biggest prize, could provide a stage for Yamal and Ronaldo to lock horns once more.
This potential meeting will not just showcase talent but also highlight the ongoing transition of footballing generations.
Moments like the Globe Soccer Awards tribute remind fans of the blend of mentorship, respect, and rivalry that enriches the game.
