Lionel Messi Sets New Record as First Back-to-Back Top Scorer in MLS History

Argentine star Lionel Messi has become the first player in Major League Soccer history to win the top scorer's Golden Boot award in two consecutive seasons.

Despite failing to score during Inter Miami's 3-3 draw with Charlotte FC on Saturday, the 39-year-old finished the season with 26 goals, surpassing Peter Musa by four goals and Englishman Sam Surridge, who placed third, by five goals.

Messi also provided 17 assists, ending the season with 43 goal contributions, the highest number in the league.

Messi became only the sixth player to win the MLS Golden Boot twice, joining a list that includes former Southampton striker Bradley Wright-Phillips and former Everton and Portsmouth winger Brekko.

Despite Messi's brilliance, Inter Miami settled for second place in the Eastern Conference, behind Nashville, led by Sam Surridge.

Inter Miami will face Columbus Crew in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs, in a best-of-three series. Notably, Inter Miami won the title last season, when Messi received the league's MVP award for the second consecutive year.

Key Details:

Messi scored 26 goals in 31 matches, the highest tally in the league, followed by Dallas forward Peter Musa with 22 goals, while Nashville's Sam Surridge scored 21 goals.

Messi scored 29 goals in the previous season, becoming the second player in league history to score at least 25 goals in two consecutive seasons.

The Argentine star retired from international duty earlier this year after 21 years playing for his national team, but extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028 in October.

The MLS Cup playoff qualifiers begin on November 19.

Inter Miami finished the regular season in second place in the Eastern Conference.