Lionel Messi tops prestigious 21st-century ranking ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, LeBron James

Lionel Messi has topped a prestigious ranking of the 21st century, leaving sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, and LeBron James behind.

Lionel Messi has become the face of MLS in recent years, but long before his move to the United States, his performances, trophies, and records had already placed him among the greatest athletes in sports history. As 2025 approaches its end, the Argentine icon has been ranked No. 1 ahead of stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, and LeBron James in a prestigious 21st-century list.