Lionel Messi delivered yet another masterclass, scoring a stunning hat-trick against Nashville SC to seal the 2025 MLS Golden Boot and lead Inter Miami to a 5–2 victory at Geodis Park.
The Argentine legend finished the regular season with 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 matches, capping off one of the most dominant individual campaigns in Major League Soccer history.
At 38 years old, Messi’s performance underscores his timeless brilliance and adaptability. His 29-goal tally ranks as the fourth-highest in MLS history, trailing only Carlos Vela and Josef Martínez, while his combined 48 goal contributions nearly broke Vela’s all-time single-season record of 49.
Messi’s first MLS Golden Boot triumph is a milestone not only for his illustrious career but also for American soccer. He outpaced top scorers Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge, proving his ability to dominate even in one of the most competitive MLS seasons ever.
A decisive hat-trick on Decision Day cemented Inter Miami’s place as the third-best team in the Eastern Conference with 65 points from 34 games, a point behind leaders Philadelphia Union while Nashville also advanced into the playoffs in the 6th position.
