Lionel Messi was honored at the White House by US President Donald Trump following Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup victory last season.
The ceremony celebrated the team’s achievement and recognized Messi’s contribution to the growing popularity of soccer in the United States.
During the event, Trump welcomed the Argentine football icon and praised his remarkable career in front of invited guests and sports personalities.
Trump Praises Messi’s Football Legacy
While addressing the audience, Trump said it was a privilege to welcome Messi to the White House.
He highlighted the global impact of the football legend and acknowledged his achievements both at club level and on the international stage.
Trump also shared a personal anecdote about his son Barron, revealing that the teenager is a big fan of Messi.
According to the president, Barron was excited to learn that the Argentine star would be attending the ceremony.
Cristiano Ronaldo Also Mentioned During Event
During his remarks, Trump also referenced Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, noting that Ronaldo had visited the White House previously.
He praised both players for their contributions to football and their global influence on the sport.
Trump even sparked a light-hearted debate by asking attendees who they believed was the better player, Messi or Brazilian legend Pelé.
At one point, he joked that Messi might even be better than Pelé, prompting laughter among the guests.
Inter Miami Delegation Attends Ceremony
Several members of the Inter Miami organization attended the event alongside Messi.
These included team co-owner Jorge Mas and head coach Javier Mascherano. They presented Trump with an Inter Miami jersey and a commemorative watch.
Messi also gifted the president a signed Inter Miami football.
Other attendees included MLS Commissioner Don Garber, former baseball star Alex Rodriguez, and several officials involved in preparations for upcoming international soccer events in the United States.
A Historic Moment for MLS
The visit marked a significant milestone for Major League Soccer. Inter Miami became the first MLS team to be invited to the White House during Trump’s two presidential terms.
The ceremony also highlighted the increasing popularity of soccer in the United States and the influence of global stars like Messi in expanding the league’s reach.
