Ronaldo 'hurt' by Messi tears
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo admits he felt sorry for Lionel Messi, who announced his retirement from international football after Argentina's Copa America final defeat against Chile.
Messi lost a major international final for the fourth time, and the shootout defeat to Chile in the Copa America final was the last straw for the 29 year-old, who announced his retirement immediately after the match.
The debate over the best player in the world has sparked rivalry between the two superstars but the Real Madrid man put that aside to comfort his adversary.
"Messi has taken a tough decision and people should understand. He is not accustomed to defeats and disappointments, not even finish the second. Missing a penalty does not make you a bad player," Ronaldo told Mundo Deportivo.
"It hurts to see Messi in tears and I hope he returns to his country, because he needs it."
Ronaldo can sympathise with Messi, they both boast an impeccable club CV but have failed to lead their respective countries to a major international trophy.
The 31 year-old has the chance to put that to bed at UEFA EURO 2016 with Portugal facing Wales in the semi-final on Thursday (AEST).
