3 similarities between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi 

2. Similar Background

Ronaldo and Messi in action at a FC Barcelona v Real Madrid CF - La Liga game

Both Messi and Ronaldo have really similar backgrounds. Both players come from humble beginnings. They started playing at a very young age and were child prodigies. Both of them were not academically inclined and pursued football as a potential career.

Add to that, both of them faced adversities while playing football. Ronaldo suffered from racing heart disease and Messi from a Growth Hormone disorder. Both of them did not let those problems stop them from becoming the best footballers in the world.

Besides these, they are both also two of the most marketable athletes in the world.