Copyright Athlon Sports
Even as LeBron James remains sidelined to start the 2025-26 NBA season, he remains on the mind of many. James, who is getting set to enter his record-breaking twenty-third season in the NBA, still remains a popular topic of discussion all over the world. The latest example could be found half away across the globe from where James and the Los Angeles Lakers reside. In a recent sit-down interview, international soccer superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, didn’t hesitate to mention James’ name in response to a question he was faced with. Ronaldo, who is the same age as James, 40, appears to remain in peak athletic shape, and still plays at an extremely high level whether for his native country of Portugal, or his club team, Al-Nassr FC in the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano Ronaldo Takes Jab at LeBron James During Ronaldo’s latest interview, he sat down with famed journalist, broadcaster, and media personality, Piers Morgan. The soccer star was asked what other athletes he looks to for inspiration to help stay in such great physical shape at the age of 40. Ronaldo quickly responded with James’ name, however, he decided to insert (what appeared to be) a light-hearted jab at the Lakers superstar. “I saw good examples in other sports as well, for example, in basketball LeBron James. I think we are the same age. I have more hair than him,” Ronaldo said. Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest soccer players of all-time, and he remains without a definitive timeline for retirement. However, he is also considered one of the most handsome men in not only sports, but on the entire planet. And his joke aimed at James appeared to be another reminder that he still has a full, luscious head of hair, while James, on the other hand, does not. Ronaldo didn’t stop there, adding that he appreciates the fact that James is still playing at a high level at his craft as well. “I think it’s good because he still plays basketball and he’s in good shape,” Ronaldo said. James has been forced to sit out of the Lakers first nine games of the regular season, as he continues to rehab a bout with sciatica. The Lakers continue to play well in his absence, sitting in the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference with a record of 7-2. The Lakers will surely welcome their leader and face of the organization back with open arms however, as they continue to battle injuries up and down their roster so far this season. James’ health status moving forward received a major update earlier this week, as it was announced he has been cleared for full-contact activities. While there is no definitive timeline for the day he will make his season debut, it appears to be approaching quickly, becoming clearer in the Lakers rearview mirror every day. The Lakers next game comes on Saturday, on the road, against the Atlanta Hawks. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. EDT on NBA TV.
