Messi Wins MLS Golden Boot, Scores Twice in Playoff Win Over Nashville

Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer superstar, was presented with the 2025 MLS Golden Boot award by MLS Commissioner Don Garber before scoring two goals to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Nashville SC in the MLS Cup playoff opener. Messi earned the Golden Boot by scoring 29 goals in 28 regular-season games, marking his first time winning the award since joining Inter Miami in 2023. The victory came shortly after Messi signed a three-year contract extension with Inter Miami, keeping him with the club through 2028. Garber praised Messi for resetting the trajectory of Major League Soccer and highlighted Messi's impact on the club, city, and league. Messi also co-led the league in assists with 19 and is a strong candidate to win his second consecutive MLS MVP award. Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has helped the club win the 2023 Leagues Cup, the 2024 Supporters' Shield, and set an MLS record for most points in a single season, further solidifying his influence on American soccer.