Lionel Messi has been awarded the Landon Donovan MVP Award for the 2024 MLS season, marking a remarkable achievement in his inaugural full season with Inter Miami. The announcement came on Friday, with Messi outperforming notable competitors such as D.C. United’s Christian Benteke and his own teammate Luis Suárez.
At 37 years old, Messi’s impressive stats include 20 goals in just 16 appearances across 19 matches, making him one of only three players in MLS history to achieve at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season, joining Carlos Vela and Sebastian Giovinco. His victory was affirmed through a voting process that gathered input from players, club technical staff, and select media members, with Messi securing 38.43% of the votes compared to Benteke’s 33.70%.
Despite missing significant time due to an ankle injury, Messi’s contributions on the field were undeniable—averaging over one goal every 90 minutes and achieving a league record of 2.18 goal contributions per match over 1,485 minutes. His performance helped Inter Miami capture the Supporters’ Shield and set a franchise single-season points record of 74, although their postseason run ended abruptly with a loss to Atlanta United in the first round of the playoffs.
The announcement was made by MLS Commissioner Don Garber in a heartwarming video featuring Inter Miami Academy students and Messi’s sons. Messi expressed gratitude to the young players and emphasized the importance of perseverance in pursuing one’s dreams.
In recognition of his ongoing impact, Garber described Messi’s status in global football as akin to a blend of Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift, underscoring his immense appeal and popularity. As he continues to add to his already extensive list of accolades, including eight Ballon d’Or titles and numerous other top honors, Messi remains a transformative figure in Major League Soccer.
As the MLS Cup final approaches, with the LA Galaxy aiming for a record sixth title against the New York Red Bulls seeking their first, the league is experiencing significant excitement and engagement, bolstered by Messi’s performances.
In summary, Messi’s MVP award not only signifies his contributions to Inter Miami but also highlights his transformative role in popularizing MLS and promoting the sport’s growth in the United States. His passion for the game and dedication to nurturing young talent promise a bright future for both the club and the league.