Lionel Messi has been named the 2024 Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player after leading Inter Miami to a record-breaking regular season, the league announced on Friday. In his first full MLS campaign, Messi tallied 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches, propelling Miami to an unprecedented 74-point season and their first Supporters’ Shield.
Despite the team’s early exit in the playoffs, Messi expressed gratitude for the honor during the MVP ceremony. “I would have liked to receive this award in another situation, being able to play the final on Saturday,” Messi said in comments provided by MLS. “We had a big dream of being MLS champions this year. It didn’t happen, but next year we’ll come back stronger to try again.”
A Historic Season
At 37, Messi became the first player in Inter Miami’s history to win the league’s top individual honor, which was renamed in 2015 after former MVP Landon Donovan. His achievements place him among MLS’s elite: only two other players—Carlos Vela in 2019 (34 goals, 15 assists) and Sebastian Giovinco in 2015 (22 goals, 16 assists)—have managed at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season.
Messi’s MVP title adds to an already legendary career that includes a World Cup victory, a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, and countless club accolades. “Leo, congratulations,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “On behalf of our entire league, all of our country, and everybody that loves the game here and throughout the world, we’re honored to have you in our league. To have the best player in the world be the best player in Major League Soccer is something that dreams are made of for all of us.”
Messi edged out finalists including Columbus Crew’s Cucho Hernández, Portland Timbers’ Evander, D.C. United’s Christian Benteke, and Miami teammate Luis Suárez for the award. His impact extends beyond the pitch, drawing unprecedented global attention to MLS and cementing Inter Miami’s place as a competitive force in the league.
