It’s a question that divides generations, sparks social media wars, and floods comment sections with passion: Is Cristiano Ronaldo the real GOAT? While football greatness can’t be pinned down to a single match, there’s one night that continues to echo across stadiums, screens, and highlight reels—the epic 2019 Champions League comeback against Atlético Madrid.

March 12, 2019. Juventus Stadium.
Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Juventus needed a miracle. Enter Cristiano Ronaldo, a man born for moments where others shrink. What followed was a performance so complete, so ferociously determined, that even his staunchest critics were left stunned. With a towering header, a clinical finish, and a nerves-of-steel penalty, Ronaldo netted a hat-trick to send Juve through with a 3-2 aggregate victory. That night, he didn’t just win a game—he carried an entire team and silenced an entire city.

It wasn’t just the goals—it was the emotion, the intensity, the pure willpower on display. Ronaldo, who has done it in England, Spain, Italy, and internationally with Portugal, showcased once again why many call him the ultimate big-game player. He has scored in three UEFA Champions League finals and is the all-time leading scorer in the competition, with over 140 goals.

The numbers only tell half the story. It’s the consistency, the adaptability, and the mindset that separates him. From his early days dazzling at Manchester United to his record-breaking spells at Real Madrid—where he won four Champions League titles in five years—Ronaldo has defined an era of football greatness. He helped Portugal win their first-ever major trophy at Euro 2016, even after being subbed off injured in the final, where he transformed into an emotional, animated touchline leader.

But is he the GOAT (Greatest of All Time)? That’s where the debate sharpens. Lionel Messi, his closest rival, is often praised for his artistry and playmaking magic. Yet Ronaldo brings a different kind of dominance—more gladiator than magician. His physique, mentality, and sheer hunger to win make him the most relentless footballer the world has seen.

Some say it’s about World Cup trophies, others about individual stats, and many argue it’s about how players define generations. If GOAT means the most complete goal scorer, the most clutch performer, and the most globally iconic athlete, then yes—Cristiano Ronaldo has a rightful claim to the title.

As he continues to play into his late 30s with unmatched fitness and drive—currently starring for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia—Ronaldo’s legacy remains intact. Whether you’re on Team CR7 or not, there’s no denying: he’s already immortal in football history.

Yankees icon Aaron Judge has once again shut the door on fans hoping to see him light up the 2025 Home Run Derby, confirming that he’ll be sitting this one out. The slugger, who famously won the Derby in his electric 2017 rookie season, told reporters on Thursday, “Nope. Same answer. Only if I’m talking about it here [in New York].”

That statement is consistent with what the two-time MVP has maintained over the years: if the MLB All-Star Game isn’t being held in New York, he’s not interested. Unfortunately for fans, there’s little hope for that scenario anytime soon. The Yankees last hosted the All-Star Game back in 2008, and with the Mets’ Citi Field having hosted in 2013, the Big Apple is unlikely to be back on the rotation until the 2030s—well past the prime of the Bronx Bomber.

The 6-foot-7 powerhouse’s reluctance stems from more than just preference. After winning the 2017 Derby, Judge revealed the experience aggravated a shoulder injury he sustained crashing into an outfield wall earlier that season. He later required surgery—making the decision to skip future Derbies more about preservation than performance.

And right now, performance is exactly what he’s delivering. Judge is off to what many are calling the best start of his career, boasting an astronomical .392 batting average, an on-base percentage of .493, and a slugging percentage of .758. His 21 home runs trail only Cal Raleigh (24) and Shohei Ohtani (23), but he leads Major League Baseball in every other key offensive category.

Despite the 2025 Derby being set for Atlanta’s Truist Park on Monday, July 14, Judge is staying true to his word. No official commitments have been made by any players yet, but Judge’s early “no” has already sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans are calling it a missed opportunity for the sport, while others praise him for prioritizing health and longevity.

Looking ahead, the 2026 All-Star Game is locked in for Philadelphia, and Chicago’s Wrigley Field is the likely destination for 2027. Toronto, having not hosted since 1991, is reportedly being considered for 2028 after its major Rogers Centre renovation—none of which bring the Derby any closer to Yankee Stadium.

For now, fans will have to enjoy Judge’s home run heroics during the regular season—and by the look of things, there will be plenty to savor. His bat is on fire, his plate discipline is razor-sharp, and even without Derby appearances, Aaron Judge is redefining what dominance looks like in modern baseball.

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ dual-threat superstar, continues to redefine success both on and off the baseball field. As of 2025, Ohtani’s estimated net worth has skyrocketed to $150 million, reflecting his unparalleled achievements and marketability in the world of sports.

Ohtani’s financial ascent is largely attributed to his historic 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, signed in December 2023. This groundbreaking deal, the largest in professional sports history, includes a unique structure where $68 million per year is deferred, allowing the team financial flexibility while ensuring Ohtani’s long-term earnings.

Beyond his salary, Ohtani’s endorsement portfolio significantly bolsters his income. In 2025 alone, he is projected to earn over $50 million from endorsements, partnering with global brands such as New Balance, Fanatics, Porsche Japan, and Japan Airlines.

Ohtani’s on-field performance continues to captivate fans worldwide. In the 2024 season, he made history by becoming the first MLB player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, a feat that contributed to the Dodgers’ World Series victory.

Off the field, Ohtani maintains a relatively private lifestyle. In February 2024, he announced his marriage to Japanese basketball player Mamiko Tanaka, and the couple welcomed their first child in April 2025. Despite his immense wealth, Ohtani is known for his modest spending habits, reportedly relying on his parents to manage his finances.

Ohtani’s influence extends beyond baseball, as he continues to inspire a new generation of athletes with his dedication, humility, and exceptional talent. With his net worth poised to grow even further, Ohtani solidifies his status as one of the most influential and financially successful athletes of his era.