Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine footballer, was awarded the Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2024 season. The surprise announcement took place at Inter Miami's stadium, where Messi was greeted by over 250 academy players forming a 'MVP' formation on the field, holding a trophy for him.
Despite missing 15 regular-season matches due to injuries and national team commitments, Messi's impact on the league was undeniable. He contributed to a league-high 36 goals, scoring 20 and assisting on 16, setting a record for the highest rate per 90 minutes in MLS history.
The MVP award, named after Landon Donovan, was determined through a poll involving players, club technical staff, and select media members. Messi narrowly edged out Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernández in the voting process.
Reflecting on his win, Messi expressed gratitude for the honor and acknowledged the support from fans and players. He led Inter Miami to the Supporters Shield and the best regular-season record in MLS history, in addition to captaining Argentina to a Copa America title.
Despite falling short in the MLS Cup playoffs, Messi remains optimistic about the future, aiming to return stronger next season. His presence in the league has elevated the profile of Inter Miami and MLS as a whole, with his No. 10 jersey becoming a top seller.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber praised Messi's impact on the league, likening his global appeal to that of music icons Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift. Garber expressed hope for Messi's continued presence in MLS, as the football star is under contract until the end of the 2025 season.
Inter Miami's investment in Messi, valued at over $150 million, has proven successful, with the club experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition. The team's managing owner, Jorge Mas, emphasized the positive impact of Messi's arrival and hinted at more achievements to come.
As Messi continues to make history on the field, his influence extends beyond the game, inspiring young players and fans alike. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is further solidified with the MLS MVP award for the 2024 season.
