At 37, Lionel Messi Named MLS MVP After 20 Goals, 16 Assists for Inter Miami

Dec 6, 2024, 03:41 PM

At 37 years old, Lionel Messi has been named the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Most Valuable Player, receiving the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. Despite missing 15 games, the Inter Miami forward led the league with 36 goal contributions, scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in 19 matches. Messi is the first player in Inter Miami's history and the fifth Argentinian to earn this honor. He received 38.4% of the vote, edging out Cucho Hernandez of Columbus Crew, who garnered 33.7%. He was presented with the award during a surprise ceremony involving his family and Inter Miami's youth team. Reflecting on the honor, Messi stated, "In the long run, sacrifice and effort yield rewards."