Lionel Messi has been voted the Major League Soccer Player of the Month for May 2025, a well-deserved honor following a scintillating stretch of performances for Inter Miami CF. The Argentine superstar, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, showcased his unparalleled skill and game-changing presence, leading his team to new heights in the MLS Eastern Conference. This accolade, announced on June 5, 2025, marks another milestone in Messi’s remarkable tenure with the Herons.
Throughout May, Messi delivered a masterclass on the pitch, appearing in seven matches and amassing an impressive seven goals and four assists. His contributions were pivotal in powering Inter Miami to a three-game unbeaten streak, including a commanding 5-1 victory over the Columbus Crew on May 31. In that match, Messi scored twice and provided three assists, becoming only the second player in MLS history to record multiple games with at least five goal contributions in a single match. His ability to dismantle defenses with pinpoint passing, dazzling dribbles, and clinical finishing was on full display, as he chipped goalkeepers, curled shots from distance, and set up teammates with surgical precision. This performance alone earned him the MLS Player of the Matchday honor for Matchday 17, his second consecutive weekly award and seventh overall in the league.
Messi’s impact extended beyond the Columbus rout. His brace and assist in a 4-2 win over CF Montreal on May 28 helped Inter Miami snap a five-game winless streak, reigniting their campaign. A week earlier, his free-kick goal and assist in a dramatic 3-3 draw against the Philadelphia Union showcased his knack for delivering in clutch moments. With 10 goals and six assists in the 2025 season, Messi now leads the MLS with 16 goal contributions, solidifying his case for a potential second Landon Donovan MLS MVP award. His efforts have propelled Inter Miami from sixth to third place in the Eastern Conference, setting the stage for their upcoming challenge at the FIFA Club World Cup.
The 37-year-old’s influence transcends statistics. His presence has elevated Inter Miami’s profile and drawn global attention to MLS, though not without challenges. Despite the Herons’ historic Supporters’ Shield win last season, their early playoff exit underscored the league’s competitive parity. As Messi prepares to lead Inter Miami against Egyptian side Al Ahly in the Club World Cup opener on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium, his recent form suggests he remains a force capable of competing on any stage. Posts on X echoed the excitement, with fans and analysts alike hailing Messi’s “GOAT-worthy” performances, noting his seven goals, four assists, and five Player of the Matchday awards in May.
Messi’s partnership with former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez has also been a key factor in Inter Miami’s resurgence. Their chemistry, evident in Suárez’s goals assisted by Messi against Montreal, has rekindled memories of their dominant years in Spain. As Messi gears up for international duty with Argentina for World Cup qualifiers before the Club World Cup, his focus remains on team success. “It is always special to score and help the team win,” Messi said after his Montreal performance, “but most important is the victory.”
This latest accolade adds to Messi’s storied career, which includes eight Ballon d’Or awards and a World Cup triumph. His $20.4 million compensation, the highest in MLS history, reflects his marketability and on-field value, complemented by endorsement deals and a revenue-sharing agreement with Apple TV.