LIONEL MESSI defended arch rival Cristiano Ronaldo after he snubbed last nights prestigious Ballon d Or ceremony.
Messi, who won a record sixth crown at the gala in Paris, used the occasion to stick up for the man he has battled his entire career.
Juventus hero Ronaldo stayed in Italy to pick up the award for the Best Player in Serie A.
Ronaldo - who reportedly delayed the event by waiting in his car until he was announced winner- finished third in the Ballon d Or rankings, behind Messi and runner-up Virgil van Dijk.
But Messi saw no reason to rub his triumph - which takes him one ahead of Ronaldos five Ballons d Or - in the face of his great rival.
Asked about Ronaldos absence, Messi said: "Hes not here because he couldnt be here.
"It shouldnt be twisted. We enjoyed a great gala."
Messis diplomacy was in stark contrast to Ronaldos sister Katia, who launched an almighty rant at Van Dijk after the Liverpool ace made a cheeky dig about her brother.
Messi used the win not to make fun of Ronaldo but rather to say how he will be at Barcelona for years to come.
Asked about his future at the Nou Camp, Messi said: "The people at the club know me.
"They know theres no problem beyond what the contract says.
"What I feel for this club goes beyond any signature or any role. There isnt a problem."
And quizzed about when he will start thinking about retirement, the Argentina genius said: "Im 32 already and on my way to 33.
"I said a long time ago that it all depends on how I feel physically.
"But today I feel better than ever on a physical and personal level, so hopefully I can stretch it out a lot more."
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