Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo says he's not bothered in the reported rivalry with Barcelona ace Lionel Messi.

Both are on a 23-man shortlist compiled by FIFA's football committee and experts from France Football magazine.

"(The rivalry) is a question of the media," he told France Football.

"We constantly face it to sell more papers and improve television audiences.

"The truth is I'm a little tired of it. It's a little heavy but I'm used to it. I don't like to compare myself with others.

"Messi and I are different, that's for sure.

"I respect him a lot.

"Messi can win (the Balon d'Or) but so can Xavi or Iniesta. And we cannot forget (Didier) Drogba or Falcao. They can also receive the trophy."