Endrick, a new football star recruited to Real Madrid, quoted Cristiano Ronaldo as his idol. This is also seen with Haaland, Mbappe, Saka, Vini Jr, Rodrygo, Kvara. So many young players today all state Ronaldo as an influence for them. Messi has more accolades than Ronaldo, but the only young players I can think that stated him as an influence is Julian Alvarez and Jude Bellingham. Why do you think most young players respect and admire Ronaldo more than Messi?
He is a perfect example of , if you work hard and train enough you can Make it to the top. CR7 developed all the skill sets by working hard on it. Relentless training and mentality. I personally look up to his work mentality.
Messi is great, but I am not gifted like him. And CR7 gives a hope that you can make it with hard work.
Yeah hard work matters the most.