Lionel Messi Makes History as MLS Most Valuable Player with Record-Breaking Season

Lionel Messi, the footballing legend, has been granted the prestigious title of Major League Soccer's Most Valuable Player. This remarkable recognition comes in light of his exceptional contributions to Inter Miami, which has witnessed an extraordinary regular season under his leadership.

The Argentine superstar was handed the accolade after his performances helped Miami to a record regular season points tally, earning the club its first ever Supporters Shield.

The 37-year-old maestro finished the regular season with a league-leading 36 goal contributions after netting 20 goals and 16 assists.

Messi's MVP award comes despite an injury-hit campaign in which he made only 19 appearances.

Miami and Messi's season ultimately fizzled out, when the team suffered a shock first-round defeat in the MLS Cup playoffs.

Messi is the 10th South American to win the MVP, and the fifth from Argentina after Luciano Acosta, Diego Valeri, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, and Christian Gomez. 

Messi was presented with the award in a ceremony at Inter's Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale alongside Miami Academy players.

"Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you," Messi told the Academy players in a video posted on the team's website.

"It's a source of pride to watch you all train. I'm very happy to be here every day.

ALSO READ | Neuer, Gnabry join Bayern Munich’s extended injury list as Kompany dicey over final XI against Heidenheim

"I'm happy to be in this city, in this club that is growing ... I invite you to keep fighting and striving for your dreams."

MLS commissioner Don Garber said Messi brought an unprecedented touch of football stardom to the league, which will conclude its season on Saturday with the MLS Cup final between LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls in Los Angeles.

"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," Garber said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to web's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for web audience.