The debate as to who the best current player in the game is between Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo is never-ending, but the Portuguese has now insisted he is the best player of the past 20 years.
The two superstars have battled each other for the past eight Ballon d'Or titles, with Messi lifting five golden balls and Ronaldo three.
However, the 31-year-old has now boldly claimed he has been better than his peers over the past 20 years.
"Where would I rate myself amongst the top players of the last 20 years? Thinking positively, then I believe, with what I've achieved, I'm the best of the lot," he told Italian magazine Undici.
The Portuguese also discussed his impact on the beautiful game.
"The best athletes always influence their sport, so I think I've had an important impact," he added.
"I can't say how much, but if you can run faster, jump higher than the rest, be consistently strong and agile, then you can make your talent as effective as it can be.
"I've worked hard to get to the highest level, and I'll continue doing it to stay where I am.
"I maintain the same attitude and dedication in every single training session and in every match.
"I look after myself so I can keep making history in football well into the future."
Read: Top 12 Players With Most Titles In History
Ronaldo has lifted 18 trophies with Manchester United and Real Madrid, while Messi's tally stands at 28 pieces of silverware, despite being three years younger than the Portugal captain.
Do you think Ronaldo is the best player in the past 20 years? Have your say in the comments section below.
