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?
CR7 literally got himself to peak levels of human conditioning. His leap, his speed, his core strength, his agility and balance, his pure athleticism, barely ever injured, etc.
Everything a modern day athlete aspires to be. Messi was is one of the best footballers ever. Ronaldo is one of the best athletes ever. That’s why you’ll find plenty of athletes outside of football looking up to CR7 as well.