Lionel Messi wins consecutive MLS Golden Boot awards

Lionel Messi has made history in Major League Soccer (MLS) by securing the Golden Boot award for the second consecutive season. Representing Inter Miami, the Argentine star concluded the 2026 regular season with a total of 26 goals. He outperformed Petar Musa of FC Dallas, who finished with 22 goals, and Sam Surridge of Nashville, who recorded 21.

In addition to his scoring record, Messi contributed 17 assists, marking a league-high 43 goal involvements for the season. This accomplishment distinguishes Messi as the first player in the history of the MLS to win the Golden Boot in two back-to-back years. The forward previously earned the award in 2025, during which he tallied 29 goals and 19 assists. Following this latest victory, Messi has now joined a select group of only six players in league history to have secured two Golden Boot titles throughout their careers.