Lionel Messi, the revered Argentine forward and Inter Miami sensation has been crowned Time magazine’s Athlete of the Year. Messi’s impact on and off the field since joining Inter Miami in July has been extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on American soccer.
The 36-year-old maestro wasted no time leaving his imprint on the MLS, scoring a remarkable 11 goals in 14 games across all competitions. Messi’s stellar contributions played a pivotal role in securing Inter Miami’s historic victory in the Leagues Cup, marking the club’s first-ever trophy. This achievement and his stellar performances undoubtedly solidified Messi’s claim to the prestigious title.
Messi’s accolades did not end there, as he clinched the Ballon d’Or for an unprecedented eighth time in October. The soccer virtuoso’s on-field brilliance and unparalleled skill set have continued to captivate fans and critics alike, further enhancing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Messi’s accolades did not end there, as he clinched the Ballon d’Or for an unprecedented eighth time in October. The soccer virtuoso’s on-field brilliance and unparalleled skill set have continued to captivate fans and critics alike, further enhancing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Time magazine aptly acknowledged Messi’s transformative impact on American soccer, crediting him with the seemingly impossible feat of turning the U.S. into a soccer-centric nation. The magazine highlighted the surge in attendance, ticket prices, merchandise sales, and viewership of MLS games since Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami.
In an insightful interview with Time, Lionel Messi shared the behind-the-scenes deliberations that led to his move to Inter Miami. Following his departure from Paris St-Germain, where he concluded his contract, Messi expressed his initial desire for an emotional return to his boyhood club, but that will never happen.
