Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates visited the White House where they met United States President Donald Trump to celebrate the club’s historic Major League Soccer triumph.
Inter Miami lifted the MLS Cup for the first time in December, marking a landmark achievement for the club since its entry into the league. The team, co-owned by former England captain David Beckham, received the invitation ahead of their upcoming MLS match against DC United in Washington.
Messi and several members of the squad stood beside Trump as he addressed the media during the ceremony. The president congratulated the team for their title-winning campaign and highlighted the Argentine star’s remarkable career.
Trump Praises Messi’s Legacy
During the event, Trump revealed that his son Barron had reminded him that Messi would be present at the ceremony.
He recalled the moment by saying that Barron told him Messi would be visiting the White House and that he was a big admirer of the football legend.
Trump praised Messi’s achievements and pointed out that the Argentine recently secured the 47th trophy of his career, a record that places him among the most decorated players in football history.
Addressing Messi directly, Trump thanked him for choosing to play in the United States and for helping grow the popularity of football in the country.
“You could have gone anywhere in the world and played for any club, but you chose Miami,” Trump said, acknowledging the impact Messi has had on the league since joining the franchise.
A Historic Chapter for Inter Miami
Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 and has since transformed the club’s fortunes. His presence has elevated the team both on the field and commercially, attracting global attention to Major League Soccer.
The Argentine forward continued his outstanding form last season by winning the MLS Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive year. No player in league history had previously achieved that feat.
In October, the 38-year-old confirmed his long-term commitment to Inter Miami by signing a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2028.
His influence has also been crucial in helping Miami secure their first MLS Cup, a moment that firmly established the club among the league’s leading teams.
Comparisons With Football Greats
Trump also reflected on past football legends while praising Messi’s talent.
He mentioned watching Brazilian icon Pele during his playing days and suggested that Messi might even surpass the three-time World Cup winner in terms of overall greatness.
While acknowledging Pele’s legendary status, Trump joked that Messi could arguably be even better.
For Inter Miami, the White House visit was another symbolic milestone following their championship success. The ceremony not only recognised their MLS triumph but also underlined the growing influence of football in the United States.
With Messi continuing to lead the team and committed to the club for several more years, Inter Miami’s journey in American soccer looks far from over.
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