Ex-Ballon d'Or Candidate Claims He Could Have Reached Messi, Ronaldo Level But Chose Not To

A former Ballon d'Or candidate claims he could have reached the level of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but he just chose not to.

There are only few soccer players who have earned the right to make bold claims about Messi and Ronaldo. However, some had careers that had them believing they were on the same footing as -- or maybe even better than -- the pair.

In a recent talk with DiMarzio (via The Sun), Wesley Sneijder, a former Ballon d’Or candidate, has made what may have been one of the most intriguing claims in the history of the sport. The Dutchman said that he could have become as legendary as Messi and Ronaldo, but he just “didn’t feel like it.”

"I could have become like Messi or Ronaldo. I simply didn't feel like it,” Sneijder revealed.

The 35-year-old went on to explain that he had the same potential and qualities as “Leo” and “CR7.” However, he just didn’t want to make a lot of sacrifices in order to even up his game.

"I enjoyed my life, maybe I had a glass [of wine] at dinner. Leo and Cristiano are different, they have made many sacrifices. And that's fine with me, my career however, was still amazing," he continued.

Indeed, Sneijder had a glittering career. In fact, he has copped a ton of trophies and 134 caps for his country before officially retiring last year. He was also once named UEFA midfielder of the season and one of the three best midfielders in the world in 2010 by FIFA.

Despite being a notable player, many are convinced that Sneijder’s career gradually went downhill after his peak in 2010. That same year, Sneijder came close to winning his first Ballon d’Or award but fell short against the legendary Barcelona trio of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Messi.

After all, Sneijder seemed content with his life and was enjoying a quite magnificent career. He is now happily retired and cherishing life after soccer with his family.

Meanwhile, another soccer legend recently made a bizarre claim. According to former Brazilian player Edilson, he was better than the greatest players in the world today, including Neymar, Messi and Ronaldo.

"I was better than Neymar. For him to be better than me, he has to be win a World Cup. The same goes for Leo Messi, for him to be better than me, he has to win a World Cup. Cristiano only has strength, he strikes the ball well with both feet. But I'm more skilful than him," Edilson claimed.