Ramos slams Griezmann for Messi, Ronaldo comparison: 'Ignorance is always bold'

Sergio Ramos didn't hold back when weighing in on Antoine Griezmann's reported declaration that he was on the same level as superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The Atletico Madrid forward voiced his displeasure over his recent omission from the list of finalists for the Best FIFA Men's Player award - Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Mohamed Salah were named as the final three - and said he hoped to win the Ballon d'Or instead. Asked whether he was comfortable "sitting at the same football table" as Messi and Ronaldo, Griezmann responded, "Yes, I think so, although other players would be there as well."

When Ramos was asked about the French international's claim, the Real Madrid captain characterized Griezmann as ignorant and recommended that he humbly seek advice from his manager, Diego Simeone, and club captain, Diego Godin.

"Ignorance is always bold," Ramos told reporters Tuesday, according to Pete Jensen of the Daily Mail.

"When I hear this kid talking I think about (Francesco) Totti, (Gianluigi) Buffon, Iker Casillas, Raul, Andres Iniesta, and Xavi, who have homes full of trophies but never won a Ballon d'Or."

It's been suggested that Ramos has been looking for an opportunity to take a shot at Griezmann since the World Cup winner posted an image of the Spanish defender on his Instagram after Atletico won the UEFA Super Cup.

With Real Madrid out to defend their Champions League trophy on the heels of three straight title-winning seasons, Ramos quipped that he's motivated by the prospect of hoisting the prestigious award at Atletico Madrid's home later this season.

"Playing the final at the Wanda Metropolitano is always going to give us a bit of extra motivation," he said.