Messi fined for slapping opponent in MLS game

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi has been fined for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during a Major League Soccer (MLS) 2-2 draw on Wednesday. The 39-year-old Argentine footballer slapped the Union player on the back of the head near the end of the match after claiming Sullivan had elbowed him after the ball had been played.

Sullivan's reaction to the slap was one of anger, but the referee swiftly intervened to restore order. The MLS confirmed that Messi received a fine, although the exact amount has not been disclosed. Messi scored Miami's second goal at Subaru Park, marking his first goal for the team since his father's passing. The Argentina international was not the only player involved in a heated exchange with Sullivan; Miami's Ian Fray also received a fine from the MLS after grabbing Sullivan's neck when both players became entangled in the box.

The intense game concluded with two red cards. Miami's Yannick Bright and Sullivan's brother Cavan were both shown the red card in stoppage time. However, Cavan's one-game suspension has been rescinded following a review. Despite the rough play, Messi continues to perform well for Inter Miami. The team is currently second in the Eastern Conference, trailing leaders Nashville by seven points.

Messi, who recently returned from Argentina for his father's funeral, has expressed the possibility of retiring from professional football in the near future.