Messi or Ronaldo: Greek-Nigerian NBA superstar Antetokounmpo reveals his GOAT

Greek-Nigerian NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo has revealed that his greatest player of all time is Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo, Soccernet.ng reports.

​The argument over who is the greatest footballer of all time is an unending one. Many football fans from the '70s, '80s, and '90s often pitch their tents with either Pelé or Diego Maradona.

​However, in this century, the two players who have clearly distinguished themselves from the rest are Argentine maestro Lionel Messi and Portuguese showman Cristiano Ronaldo.

​Both have mesmerized this generation with their breathtaking displays for both club and country.

​The two icons possess different styles of play, personalities, and peculiarities. Due to these talents and differences, they have polarized the global football fanbase.

While some fans remain neutral, most pick one and follow them wholeheartedly.

​One such fan who has pitched his tent with one of the two superstars is Milwaukee Bucks star Antetokounmpo.

The Greek-Nigerian is a sporting great himself, but he is also an ardent football fan who admires Ronaldo.

Why Giannis Antetokounmpo Loves Cristiano Ronaldo

​The reason behind Giannis Antetokounmpo love for Cristiano Ronaldo is not solely due to his work on the pitch; rather, he sees himself in Ronaldo's legendary work ethic, his meticulous physical conditioning, and his relentless drive.

“It’s like asking me to choose between Jordan and LeBron. If I say Messi, it’s going to cause chaos here, I’ll tell you that,” Antetokounmpo said.

“I think Messi is pure talent and, with hard work and discipline throughout his career, he has stayed at the top. He’s probably the Greatest Player of all Time.

“But I relate more to people I see myself in hard work, discipline, taking care of your body, being consistent for many years. Cristiano is 41 today and still playing at a high level… So my mentality is closer to Cristiano Ronaldo’s.

“When you ask me that question, I choose Ronaldo. But if you compare what they’ve achieved in their careers… Eight Ballon d’Ors vs five Ballon d’Ors, one Word Cup vs none, five Champions Leagues vs four. Once you reach Messi or Ronaldo’s level, you’ve already won.”

Messi or Ronaldo? ⚽

Giannis weighs in. pic.twitter.com/H2C92Uht9l

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) February 14, 2026

Giannis Antetokounmpo And His Nigerian Connection

Giannis Antetokounmpo currently plays basketball for the Greek national team, but he has full Nigerian blood running through his veins.

He was born to Nigerian parents in Greece. However, he opted to represent the latter ar international level.

His original name was Adetokunbo, but it was changed to Antetokounmpo－what it currently is, after he gained his Greek citizenship.

Nonetheless, he never shies away from his Nigerian heritage and even visits the country occasionally.