BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami CF teammates made a ceremonial visit to the White House to celebrate the club’s 2025 MLS Cup victory, marking a historic moment for the Florida-based team.
The visit placed Major League Soccer’s newest powerhouse at the center of Washington’s traditional championship celebrations. During the event, U.S. President Donald Trump praised Messi’s influence on the team and the league, acknowledging the expectations that follow the Argentine superstar wherever he plays.
“You came in and you won,” Trump said while addressing the squad, referencing Messi’s rapid success since arriving in MLS and helping elevate the profile of American soccer globally.
The moment also sparked a familiar football debate. Trump compared Messi to Brazilian legend Pelé and asked the audience which player they considered the greater icon, with many in attendance siding with Messi.
Messi’s White House appearance comes not long after he was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the United States’ highest civilian honors. The award was announced by former U.S. President Joe Biden, though Messi was unable to attend the ceremony due to prior commitments.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has transformed the club’s global reach and competitive standing, helping lead the team to silverware while drawing unprecedented attention to Major League Soccer.
