• Lionel Messi's stellar year, marked by a record-breaking Ballon d'Or and a transformative move to Inter Miami, has earned him Time magazine's coveted Athlete of the Year title for 2023.

Messi's Record-Breaking Year Earns Him Time's Athlete of the Year 2023

Argentina's Lionel Messi has been named Time magazine's Athlete of the Year for 2023, capping off a remarkable year that included a record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or win and a transformative impact on Major League Soccer with his move to Inter Miami.

Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, faced a plethora of options when he departed Paris Saint-Germain earlier this year. However, he chose to join MLS's Inter Miami, a decision that sent shockwaves through the soccer world and elevated the league's profile to unprecedented heights.

"The truth is that fortunately, I had several options on the table that were interesting, and I had to analyze them and think, even weigh them up with my family, before making the final decision to come to Miami," Messi explained to Time.

Messi's arrival in Miami was nothing short of electrifying. He made an immediate impact on the field, scoring a remarkable 10 goals in just seven Leagues Cup appearances, spearheading Inter Miami to victory in the tournament.

The Argentine's presence extended far beyond the pitch, generating a massive surge in interest in MLS. Searches for match dates and tickets skyrocketed, with fans eagerly snapping up Inter Miami's official pink jersey. Ticket prices for Inter Miami games soared, and Apple TV, which holds a 10-year partnership with MLS, witnessed a significant increase in subscriptions, according to research firm Antenna.

"Messi managed to do what once seemed impossible: turning the US into a soccer country," Time eloquently stated.

Messi's recognition as Time's Athlete of the Year 2023 is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and his ability to transcend the boundaries of sport and culture. He joins an esteemed list of previous honorees, including Simone Biles, LeBron James, and the United States women's soccer team.