What is the ruling on one who says: "The Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, has noفضل (grace or favor) upon me," even though he prays, fasts, and performs Hajj?

It is not permissible for a Muslim to deny the Prophet’s — prayers and peace of God be upon him — merit, for he is of immense favor to the Ummah, compassionate and merciful towards them, the cause of their guidance. He endured hardship in teaching them the religion and advising them, and he saved his supplication to intercede for them. God has bestowed His favor upon us by sending him, and denying his merit is a grave error that contradicts the texts of revelation. Whoever claims that he is not superior to the Messenger has asserted a falsehood rejected by text and consensus, such as the Hadith: "I am the master of the children of Adam, and I say it without pride."