Cristiano Ronaldo has branded Pele as 'an eternal hero' after the Brazilian legend congratulated him on receiving the FIFA Special Award at 'The Best' ceremony on Monday.
While the Manchester United star won two awards on the night, after he was also named in the FIFPRO Men's World XI for 2021, it was his individual accolade that earned him special praise from footballing icon Pele.
The 81-year-old, who is widely considered as one of the best footballers to have ever lived, recorded a message for Ronaldo where he congratulated him on his prestigious prize for becoming the all-time top goalscorer in international football, scoring a ridiculous 115 goals for Portugal.
Pele said: '@cristiano, congratulations on the special tribute from FIFA. I'm looking forward to meeting you in person to give you my hug. I recorded this message with great care. See you soon! #TheBest'.
The personal message prompted Ronaldo to reply in the comments below the post, where he described the three-time World Cup winner as a 'true legend of sports'.
Ronaldo wrote: 'When Pele talks, the world listens. It's impossible not to get emotional when such an amazing person shows all his respect and admiration towards me. An eternal hero, a myth for all generations and a true legend of sports.
'As he wisely said, we are all in the same team: the team of football! Thank you, Pele! I hope I get to see you very soon, so that we can smile together and talk about this game that we love.'
The five-time Balon d'Or winner was one of the only recipients to attend the ceremony in person, and declared it was a 'dream' to collect such an award.
Speaking on Monday night, Ronaldo said: 'It is a dream. First of all, I have to say thank you to my team-mates in the national team in the last 20 years that I used to play with.
'The record was 109, right? So six ahead. I am so proud. It is a special award from Fifa - an organisation I respect a lot. I also have to thank my family. Soon I will be a father again. I am proud. It is great to be the goalscorer of all time.
'I still have the passion for the game and to score goals. I play football since I was five years old. When I go to the pitch, even in training, my motivation is still there. Even 37 soon, I feel good.
'I keep working hard. I love the game and have the passion. I want to continue. I hope to play maybe four or five years, It is all mental. If you treat your body good, when you need it it will give back.'
While it was a night to remember for Ronaldo, the Portugal star failed to make the top three for the Men's Player of the Year award, which was won by Robert Lewandowski, with Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah rounding off the podium places.