Why does Messi needs to win a major tournament in order to be compared to Pele and Maradona?

[StokedUp]

I've always hated the fact that sportsman/women of the past can NEVER be bettered by the newer ones, it's seemed to be a trend that goes on with pundits and critics or hat ever we call them. Yes Pele was amazing but I'm sorry Messi is a better player than he was and the proof is right there on paper. The older generation has got to accept that the great players of their generation can be beaten and will be beaten by younger generation greats coming through.