Lionel Messi was named Major League Soccer’s Most Valuable Player for 2024, despite missing 15 regular-season matches with injuries and international commitments. The announcement came as a surprise to the soccer star, who learned of his MVP honor in a ceremony with more than 250 Inter Miami academy players, who spelled out “MVP” at midfield, holding a trophy.
Messi, who scored 20 goals and recorded 16 assists in the 2024 season, was involved in a league-high 36 goals, marking the highest rate per 90 minutes in MLS history. He finished with 38.4% of the vote, edging out Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernández, who received 33.7%. The MVP vote is determined by players, club staff, and select media.
“Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award,” Messi told the academy players after learning the news. “I’m very grateful for this recognition.”
MLS Commissioner Don Garber described Messi’s impact as “Michael Jackson meeting Taylor Swift” in terms of global appeal, highlighting the unique star power Messi brings to the league.
This marks another significant achievement in Messi’s storied career, which includes multiple Ballon d’Or awards, FIFA Player of the Year honors, and World Cup accolades. Messi’s arrival in MLS has had a transformative effect on Inter Miami and the league, with the club winning the Leagues Cup shortly after his signing.
In addition to his MVP honor, Messi captained Argentina to a Copa América title in 2024, but Inter Miami was eliminated in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs.
“I would have liked to receive this award after playing in the MLS Cup final,” Messi said. “But football is about overcoming challenges, and we will come back stronger next year.”
Messi’s $150 million contract with Inter Miami, which runs through the 2025 season, has already reshaped the club’s brand and boosted MLS’ popularity. The league hopes Messi remains a fixture in American soccer, with plans to keep him through at least 2026, coinciding with the opening of a new stadium near Miami International Airport.
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas praised the investment, calling it an “amazing run,” with more to come.
