Messi named MLS MVP after Inter Miami's historic season

Lionel Messi was named the 2024 Major League Soccer MVP on Friday.

The Argentine superstar led the league with 36 goal contributions during Inter Miami's record-breaking regular season, scoring 20 times and providing 16 primary and secondary assists despite playing only 19 matches. The 37-year-old averaged an MLS-record 2.18 goal contributions per 90 minutes.

Led by Messi, Miami established a new MLS record for points in a single campaign and claimed the Supporters' Shield for the first time in club history.

"Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you," Messi, addressing Inter Miami's academy players who helped present him with the honor, said in an acceptance video. "It's a source of pride to watch you all train. I'm very happy to be here every day. I'm very happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing. It's a pleasure to see you grow day by day. I invite you to keep fighting and striving for your dreams."

Messi beat out teammate Luis Suarez, Golden Boot winner Christian Benteke, and All-Star forwards Evander and Cucho Hernandez to win the award and add new silverware to his overflowing trophy cabinet.

Voting Results

Messi is the second consecutive Argentine to take home the accolade after FC Cincinnati's Luciano Acosta received the honor in 2023.

Overwhelming favorites to win the MLS Cup, Inter Miami were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, falling to Atlanta United.

The stunning upset resulted in manager Gerardo "Tata" Martino's departure. Javier Mascherano, Messi's compatriot and former teammate, has since succeeded Martino.

Messi's contract with Inter Miami expires at the end of 2025, though the deal reportedly includes an option to extend his stay through 2026.

Other MLS award winners this season include Columbus' Wilfried Nancy (coach of the year), LA Galaxy winger Gabriel Pec (top newcomer), and Cincinnati's Luca Orellano (best goal).