Miami, FL - Lionel Messi has been named the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Despite missing 15 of Inter Miami's 34 regular-season matches due to injuries and national team duties, Messi made a significant impact on the field.
He contributed to 36 goals—scoring 20 and assisting on 16—achieving the highest goal involvement rate per 90 minutes in MLS history.
The announcement was made during a surprise event where over 250 Inter Miami academy players formed the letters "MVP" on the field, with Messi's children presenting him with the trophy.
Expressing his gratitude, Messi addressed the young athletes, stating, "Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you."
The MVP award is determined through a poll of players, club technical staff, and select media members.
Messi narrowly edged out Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernández for the honor.
This MVP award adds to Messi's extensive list of honors, including multiple Ballon d'Or titles and a World Cup victory with Argentina.
His exceptional performance in his debut MLS season has elevated Inter Miami's profile and brought increased attention to soccer in the United States.
Messi is under contract with Inter Miami until the end of the 2025 season, with the club expressing hopes for an extended tenure.