On July 21, 2025, Lionel Messi achieved a landmark that has long been awaited by football fans worldwide, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo in total non-penalty goals in official matches. This milestone came during an MLS clash between Inter Miami and the New York Red Bulls, where Messi scored twice to reach a tally of 764 goals, edging past Ronaldo’s 763 non-penalty goals. Remarkably, Messi reached this milestone in 167 fewer games than Ronaldo, underscoring not merely a record being broken, but new heights being established. This achievement has reignited discussions on what continues to drive Messi’s extraordinary performance well beyond his expected prime years.
Experts Attribute Messi’s Longevity to His Unmatched Mentality
In a recent ESPN FC roundtable, football analysts Kay Murray, Shaka Hislop, and Steve Nicol explored the reasons behind Messi’s enduring brilliance. Hislop noted,
You just wondered when that time would be for Lionel Messi. It doesn’t look like it’s anytime soon.
Hislop stressed that contrary to earlier perceptions that Messi’s form was declining during his Paris Saint-Germain spell, his transition to Major League Soccer has rejuvenated his game.
He is easily the main attraction,
he added, emphasizing Messi’s role as the central figure in the MLS spotlight. Murray commented on the skepticism towards the MLS, remarking that although other high-profile stars have joined the league in the past,
It’s MLS, and people will say, ‘Oh, he’s doing this in MLS.’ But other big stars have come here. Some of them have mailed it in.
This highlighted Messi’s seriousness in contrast to others who treated MLS as a retirement stage.
Steve Nicol identified Messi’s mindset as the critical factor behind his continued success:
It’s because of his mentality 100%.
He elaborated that many stars arriving in MLS have relaxed, but Messi approaches every match with the focus and intensity of a Champions League final.
Messi’s whole focus is football while he’s playing. That’s the number one priority. That’s what looks after my family at the end of the day, what he does on the football field.
Nicol’s praise for Messi’s professionalism explains why he maintains his excellence on the field, setting him apart and ensuring his place not only as a legend but potentially an eternal icon of the sport.
Transforming MLS from a Retirement League into a Global Stage
When Lionel Messi signed with Inter Miami in 2023, fresh from winning the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, his decision shocked many in the football world. Despite tempting offers from renowned teams like Barcelona and Saudi Arabian clubs, Messi chose Major League Soccer, a league historically regarded as a destination for players winding down their careers. His arrival shifted perceptions instantly, elevating MLS from a perceived retirement circuit to a platform deserving of elite talent. Fans embraced Messi’s presence enthusiastically, signaling a pivotal moment in the league’s evolution.
Messi’s influence extended beyond highlights and trophies; it altered the economics and atmosphere of the league. Soccer enthusiasts worldwide witnessed record-breaking jersey sales for three consecutive years, with special editions like the Miami Vice kit becoming highly sought after. His presence also bolstered the performances and profiles of teammates such as Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and young talents like Benjamin Cremaschi. What had been a secondary soccer market began commanding attention on the world stage, shifting MLS into prominence rather than the sporting periphery.
A Lasting Legacy: Implications for US Soccer and the 2026 World Cup
With the United States set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Messi’s association with Major League Soccer brings an added layer of excitement and legitimacy to American soccer’s global footprint. His involvement provides a tangible link between the sport’s global elite and the growing soccer passion in North America. The move has challenged skeptics who once saw the US as merely a place for fading stars to finish their careers, and it has made the nation a more attractive destination for young prospects and established players alike.
David Beckham initially pioneered soccer’s growth in the US starting in 2007, but Messi’s entry amplified that foundation, showcasing that world-class skill and marketability can thrive within the American sports ecosystem. As stadiums fill to capacity and merchandise sells out, Messi’s impact extends beyond goals—he has become a catalyst for soccer’s explosive growth in the country.
Even when Messi eventually retires, his influence will persist in the fervor of packed stadiums, the dreams of aspiring players, and the ongoing transformation of MLS into a respected football league. The presence of such a legendary figure has altered the course of American soccer history, setting a new standard for what is possible.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. He grew up following Roman Catholic traditions because of his family’s beliefs. He has two tattoos that reflect his faith. One tattoo of Jesus Christ with a crown of thorns is on his right shoulder. The other tattoo is a rosary on his forearm.
Q. Is Lionel Messi’s religion?
A. Her passing deeply affected him just before he turned eleven. From that time, as a committed Catholic, he honors her by looking up and pointing to the sky after scoring goals.