Lionel Messi has been awarded the 2026 MLS Golden Boot, becoming the first player in league history to win the award in consecutive seasons.
The Inter Miami forward scored a league-high 26 goals this season. He also recorded 17 assists and led the league with 43 goal contributions.
A Close Race for the Award
Messi edged out FC Dallas striker Petar Musa, who scored 22 goals, and Nashville SC striker Sam Surridge, who scored 21. He claimed the honor just months after winning the Silver Boot at the 2026 World Cup, when he led Argentina to the final.
Messi became the sixth two-time MLS Golden Boot winner. He joins Bradley Wright-Phillips, Chris Wondolowski, Jeff Cunningham, Taylor Twellman and Preki on that list.
The Argentine great, who retired from the national team this year, had 29 goals and 19 assists when he won the MLS award in 2025.
Eyeing Another Honor
Messi could also earn another accolade. He could become the first three-time winner of the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. Voting for that award closes at 8 p.m. EST on Monday night, and finalists will be announced on Thursday.
Messi and the No. 2-seeded Miami side face the No. 7-seeded Columbus Crew in a best-of-three series in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Correction: This story has been corrected to show that MVP voting closes on Monday, not that the winner is announced then.