Soccer icon Lionel Messi has left his mark in history with his achievements in the sport. After an offer from the Inter-Miami soccer team, Messi moved to South Florida to begin a new journey. 

After winning the 2022 World Cup for Argentina, winning multiple trophies like Liga title and Copa del Rey titles, Messi is now playing soccer in sold-out stadiums. Since joining Inter-Miami, prices of tickets have skyrocketed, and are difficult to obtain. For example, on Aug. 13, 18,500 tickets sold in eight minutes for the game at the Subaru Park Stadium. 

“It has always been exciting to see Messi play but it’s even better this time since he’s playing for the city I grew up in,” sophomore Nicolas Vacca said. 

         After joining Inter-Miami, Messi has already led the team to victory, winning  the 2023 Leagues Cup title, the first major trophy that Inter-Miami has received. Before Messi joined, Inter-Miami had an 11-game losing streak; however, Messi has now led the team to multiple wins.  

In addition to winning plenty of games for Inter-Miami, he also scored 11 goals and assisted five times. 

As Messi continues to achieve more accomplishments and progress during his soccer career, he continues to grow his fanbase across the world. Messi is not only doing amazing for himself but is also serving as an inspiration to many.

“Messi has inspired me to work harder every day because of all the work he’s put into to get to where he is today,” sophomore Lucas Borenztyn said. “Even when you are down, always find a way up.” 

As fans are selling out soccer stadiums, many will be excited to know how this impacts Messi and where it may lead him next. Based on the increase in ticket sales and the difficulty people go through to get them, it’s evident fans are eager to watch more of Messi’s career in Inter-Miami.