Cristiano Ronaldo is an inspiration, took up more challenges: Virat Kohli

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are two of the biggest football icons in the world. The football public is divided as to who is the best player in the world. The contributions of both the players for their respective clubs and countries is immense. The debate is still open as to who is the best player in the world currently. Virat Kohli, the captain of the Indian cricket team currently in Florida for the Twenty20 series against West Indies, has weighed in on this debate in an interview with FIFA.com. Kohli said that he admires Cristiano Ronaldo simply because of his work ethic and how he took on the challenges in his career successfully.

"For me, Cristiano is above everyone else. His commitment and work ethic is unmatched. He wants it that bad - you can see it every game. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me. In my opinion, Ronaldo has taken on more challenges and succeeded at all of them. He's the most complete player I have seen and his work ethic is unmatched. He inspires people. I don't think many people do that. He's also a leader and I love that. Absolutely love it. He has amazing belief too," Kohli said.

Kohli, who is placed seventh on ESPN's World Fame 100 this year, revealed that his favourite football memories include watching the 1998 and 2002 World Cups. "Brazil was amazing to watch in 1998 and 2002. I saw Ronaldo - 'The Phenomenon', play and was totally blown away by his skill and ability on the ball. One of the greatest ever. I like watching Portugal play now because they are maximising their resources along with having a legend in their team. They play with passion and belief, so I like watching them. Otherwise, in terms of pure ability and impact, France is very, very strong," Kohli revealed.

India has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup but Kohli believes that the country is making rapid improvements in the football arena. The Indian skipper believes Sunil Chhetri is an absolute champion who should play in the World Cup. "We are not far off. We have improved drastically in our football over the last three-four years. With new talent coming in to make the difference, and our skipper Sunil Chhetri leading the team with amazing composure and inspiration. "If anyone deserves it (to play in the World Cup), it's him. And the team should rally behind that motivation and qualify, and dedicate it to him. He's an absolute champion and an inspirational human being," Kohli said.

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HIGHLIGHTS

• Virat Kohli is placed seventh on ESPN's World Fame 100.
• Virat Kohli will lead India for the tour of the West Indies.
• Virat Kohli did not score a century in the 2019 World Cup.