Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Lionel Messi Makes MLS History On Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Dec 9, 2025 12:37 PM ET

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi became the first player in MLS history to capture consecutive Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player Awards.

On Tuesday, the 38-year-old Argentine superstar received 70.43 percent of the vote to earn his second career MLS MVP. Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC finished second with 11.15 percent of the vote.

The MLS MVP Award has been presented since 1996 and is voted upon by MLS club technical staff, media and current MLS players.

Messi led MLS with 29 goals and 48 total goal contributions in the 2025 regular season.

“First of all, I’m thankful for this recognition," Messi said. "It’s always nice to receive individual awards, but I want to share it with my teammates. I was also fortunate to win the MLS Golden Boot thanks to the help of my teammates. I’m happy to receive this award and be the first in the history of this league to win it in two consecutive years. I’m very thankful.”

2025 Was Messi's Year

Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF celebrates after winning and becoming champion following the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final match between Inter Miami CF and Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)Rich Storry/Getty Images

Messi joins former United States national team midfielder Preki as the only players to win the MLS MVP Award twice. Preki won the award in 1997 and 2003 while he was a member of the Kansas City Wizards.

2025 was an incredible season for Messi. He captured the MLS Golden Boot, the 2025 MLS Cup and the 2025 Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player.

Messi recorded two assists in Inter Miami's 3-1 2025 MLS Cup victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps.

He is only the fourth player in the last decade to be named MVP and win the MLS Golden Boot in the same season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: