You're right. At no point in his career have you heard many people say they are witnessing the greatest player the world has ever seen (after witnessing Leo at his absolute best, how could they do so objectively). Pele had that, Diego had that, and Messi had that.
Even as early as 2012, Cristiano's old manager Sir Alex was putting Leo up there with Diego and Pele. Then of course in 2018, he goes a step further and claims Leo to be the best ever
Relative to that trio, people en masse haven't had the same reaction to Cristiano. One of the greatest, sure, but the very best, a level no one has ever touched on a football pitch, no. That natural ability and magic that the those at the echelon had? No. You could even argue Dinho was more naturally gifted and talented. Same with Ronaldo Luiz Nazario.
Despite this, you do have to admire his hard work and will (arguably unparalleled. Leo could learn a thing or two here) to drag himself to close to that level.
He is now, and ultimately will be seen generally as below those 3 in the grand scheme of things. Is that really bad, to be considered one of the best 4/5 players in history? It's an amazing accomplishment, and he will set records that will stand for yonks. Let's not sniff at that.
A great and legendary footballer he sure is.