Silence that raises questions: why did Messi not respond to Cristiano's gesture after retirement?

The Don did it twice, but received no reciprocal treatment from the Argentine!

One name was missing from the chorus of stars rushing to salute Cristiano Ronaldo after he announced his international retirement with Portugal: Lionel Messi. The silence from the Argentine legend sparked wide controversy among fans, especially since the Al-Nassr star had taken a very different stance when "the Flea" himself walked away.

Ronaldo called time on his international career out of nowhere the day before yesterday, Thursday, even with his dispute with coach Jorge Jesus heading towards resolution. A wave of praise and appreciation poured in from former teammates and rivals. Messi, strikingly, was nowhere to be seen.

The snub stings all the more because Ronaldo had been front and centre among the stars sending messages of support and respect to the Argentine on the sidelines of his farewell with the Albiceleste.

On 7 October, just hours after Messi's last match with Argentina against Benin, the Inter Miami star wrote a goodbye message to the Albiceleste faithful. Ronaldo surprised him with a touching comment.

Messi wrote on Instagram: "Yesterday's match was my last, and I already miss wearing the sky blue and white shirt. I know I am making the right decision. It was an amazing journey, full of joys as well as some sorrows, but I am certain that every step I took was worth it."

Ronaldo's comment followed: "Leo, long years defending your country, and a story that will remain forever. All my respect for what you achieved with Argentina. A hug."

That was not the first gesture from Ronaldo towards Messi. The Portuguese had also offered his condolences to his historic rival upon the death of his father.

On 12 August, Messi posted a lengthy message expressing his grief at losing his father, and Ronaldo offered emotional support.

Ronaldo wrote at the time: "A big hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong."

Up until the time of writing, Messi had not responded with a similar gesture.

For nearly two decades, Ronaldo and Messi sat at the summit of the individual competition in world football. The Portuguese took the Ballon d'Or five times. Messi claimed it on eight occasions.

Their direct rivalry hit fever pitch over nine years between 2009 and 2018, when each played for the two poles of the Clasico, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Elsewhere, the tributes to Ronaldo kept coming after his retirement announcement. Among the first to react were Neymar da Silva and James Rodriguez, who both described him as "a legend".

Vinicius Junior kept it brief but striking, writing: "Forever number 1."

Former teammates and rivals piled in to mark the moment. Sergio Ramos reacted with a touch of humour, wishing him well in the new phase, while Rio Ferdinand reached for their shared memories with a message that read: "It was like a film, brother."

Pepe insisted that what Ronaldo gave went beyond the boundaries of football. One of the most special messages came from Nani, who played alongside him for both Portugal and Manchester United.

Nani expressed his gratitude for being part of Ronaldo's journey, noting that his legacy inspired generations of players, before saluting the Portugal captain.

Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Marcelo and Thibaut Courtois also joined the list of those bidding farewell.