Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates received a White House welcome from President Donald Trump following their triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup.
The US President thanked the Argentine superstar for selecting the Florida-based club over rival suitors from around the globe.
The Argentine forward made the move to Inter Miami in 2023 after departing Paris Saint-Germain, having rejected both an extended deal with the French giants and a substantial Saudi Arabian proposal.
His impact in Major League Soccer has been remarkable, with Messi becoming the first player in the competition's history to claim back-to-back MVP honours.
Trump, speaking during the ceremony, hailed Messi's decision by saying: "Coach [Javier] Mascherano became one of the few managers to win the MLS Cup in his very first season.
"And Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career the most of all time.
"Can you imagine that? You could have gone anywhere in the world, chosen any team but you chose Miami.
Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates received a White House welcome from President Donald Trump following their triumph in the 2025 MLS Cup
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"I don't blame you the weather is pretty great."
Messi was joined by club staff at the prestigious reception.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has now accumulated four pieces of silverware during his time in Florida, whilst also establishing himself as Inter Miami's record goalscorer.
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Lionel Messi was all smiles as he met Donald Trump
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His latest championship success extended his extraordinary career haul to 47 trophies, cementing his position as the most decorated footballer of all time.
Trump acknowledged this milestone during the White House gathering, describing the achievement as "incredible."
Javier Mascherano achieved a notable feat by securing the MLS Cup during his inaugural campaign as Inter Miami's head coach, joining an exclusive group of managers to accomplish this in their first season.
The Herons have now claimed significant silverware in three successive seasons, establishing themselves as a dominant force in American football.
Attention now turns to the Leagues Cup, where Inter Miami have discovered their group stage draw.
Mascherano's side will open their campaign against Mexican outfit Atletico San Luis on 5 August at the Nu Stadium.
Lionel Messi has won a staggering 47 trophies throughout his career
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They will subsequently face CF Monterrey three days later on 8 August, before concluding the group phase against Club Leon on 12 August.
Meanwhile, speaking earlier this season, Messi hinted that his time in football is drawing to a close.
The veteran, who is expected to lead Argentina at this summer's World Cup, said: “I’ve had a long career, and it’s still ongoing…
“But it’s also true that lately I’ve started to show greater interest in everything that’s being done, and in what can be done in the future.
“Unfortunately, football has a limited lifespan, and at some point, your career has to end.”