Lionel Messi makes MLS history with back-to-back Golden Boot wins despite Decision Day blank

Lionel Messi has etched his name in MLS history by winning the Golden Boot for a record-breaking second consecutive season. The Inter Miami forward claimed the accolade with 26 goals, leaving his closest competitor, FC Dallas striker Petar Musa, trailing by four goals. Nashville SC's Sam Surridge claimed third place with 21 goals, while Vancouver Whitecaps forward Brian White rounded out the top four with 22 goals.

The Golden Boot ceremony took place on a disappointing final day, as Messi's Inter Miami fell behind 3-0 to Charlotte FC before rallying to a 3-3 draw. Messi's tally of goals this season, though fewer than his record-breaking 29 goals in 2025, still ranks as the fourth-highest total ever recorded in a single MLS season. Only Carlos Vela's 34 goals in 2019 surpass it.

Messi's influence on the field extended beyond goals, as he contributed 17 assists, one less than league leader Pep Biel. His most remarkable feat came in August, when he scored four goals in a 7-1 win over Montreal. Inter Miami now turn their attention to defending their MLS Cup title, a feat achieved only once before by LA Galaxy in the 2011/12 season.

As the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed, they will face No. 7 Columbus Crew in a best-of-three first-round playoff series. Messi is also hot on the heels of the MLS MVP award, which has never been won three times in a row. Prior to his repeat win last season, Predrag Radosavljević was the only player to achieve the feat in 1997 and 2003. Media, players, and club staff together vote on the prestigious award.