Messi Surpasses Ronaldo in All-Time Free-Kick Goals

Lionel Messi, playing for Inter Miami, has achieved a significant milestone by moving into second place on the all-time free-kick goals list, now totaling 75 direct free-kick goals in his career. This achievement sees him surpass legendary Brazilian players such as Juninho Pernambucano (72), Roberto Dinamite (73), and Jair (74).

In 2026, Messi scored six free-kicks, further solidifying his position. He is now only behind Brazilian midfielder Marcelinho Carioca, who holds the record with 78 free-kick goals.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is currently in ninth place with 63 free-kick goals, could potentially surpass players like Jorge Aravena (65), Siniša Mihajlović (67), and Marcos Assunção (68) before his retirement at the age of 41.