As Messi turns 39, how he and Ronaldo keep breaking records
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to set records at the 2026 World Cup despite being in their late 30s and early 40s. Both players have achieved significant milestones, including Messi becoming the all-time World Cup top scorer and Ronaldo scoring in six consecutive tournaments.
Why it matters
These athletes represent the longevity of elite performance in professional sports, challenging traditional retirement timelines for world-class footballers.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Lionel Messi, 39, and Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, have set new records at the World Cup
The article provides a factual account of sports statistics and player performance without political or ideological framing.
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