Messi makes history as 1st back-to-back MLS Golden Boot winner

Lionel Messi has become the first player to win back-to-back MLS Golden Boot awards, finishing the 2026 regular season with 26 goals and 17 assists in 31 games for Inter Miami, four goals clear of runner-up Petar Musa of FC Dallas. The 39-year-old, who recently retired from international football with Argentina, also recorded a league-high 43 goal contributions. His performances helped Inter Miami finish second in the Eastern Conference and secure a fourth consecutive Concacaf Champions Cup berth.