Messi and Ronaldo Among Players Covering Least Ground in World Cup Group Stage Opener

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were among the field players who covered the least distance during the opening round of the 2026 World Cup group stage. According to official FIFA data and statistics, the two veterans, undoubtedly the tournament's biggest stars, ranked last in distance covered among non-goalkeeper players.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner finished last in this metric, covering 7.33 kilometers in the 80 minutes he was on the pitch against Algeria. Although he traditionally doesn't run much, press, or track back defensively, Messi was his team's undisputed leader, scoring a hat-trick that shattered numerous records.

Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or recipient, played the full 90 minutes in the disappointing 1-1 draw with DR Congo. He covered 7.52 km, marking the third-lowest distance in the first round. Despite becoming the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match (at 41 years old), Ronaldo finished the game without a goal and failed to register a shot on target from three attempts.