Ronaldo, the football genius, has written another chapter, cementing his title as the 21st century’s most-played player. Cristiano Ronaldo has the most 21st-century games, Messi fourth. As well as Cristiano Ronaldo’s victory, Lionel Messi nearly missed a podium finish in this important record. Ronaldo leads the list of 21st-century players with 1204 official appearances, according to the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS).
Christiano Ronaldo has the most 21st-century games, Messi fourth
This remarkable trip includes Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al-Nassr, and the Portugal National Team. Ronaldo, 38, has played 52 matches per year for 22 years, demonstrating his dedication. Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s persistent nemesis, ranks fourth with 1,047 matches for Barcelona, PSG, Inter Miami, and the Argentine National Team.
Among the top three are Brazilian goalkeeper Fabio (1,156 matches) and former Barcelona right-back Dani Alves (1,056). Only four players have over 1000 games, while 21 have over 900, including 17 active players. Ronaldo leads the 21st century in appearances, but Rogerio Ceni holds the record with 1,225. The ongoing season promises more records to be set in football, continuing the thrilling 21st-century quest for domination. Ronaldo is only 21 appearances away from this historic milestone.
Top 10 players with most matches in 21st century
2. Fábio (Brazil) – 1156
3. Dani Alves (Brazil) – 1056
4. Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 1047
5. Luka Modrić (Croatia) – 1010
6. João Moutinho (Portugal) – 997
7. Iker Casillas (Spain) – 974
8. Sergio Ramos (Spain) – 974
9. Zlatan Ibrahimović (Sweden) – 953
10. Andrés Iniesta (Spain) – 949
