“This is another new record that Messi has brought to American football. The number of 11 million viewers in the stadiums, while the regular season (the scoring round) still has 1 more round to end, shows the huge impact of the Argentine star on the MLS tournament,” AS expressed.
According to statistics, the number of spectators coming to MLS stadiums has increased continuously from 2.2 million people in 2002 to 7.3 million people in 2005. Apart from the seasons affected by Covid-19, the tournament has had a steady increase in the number of spectators every year.
However, since 2023, Messi’s presence has contributed to a significant increase in MLS attendance. More than 10.9 million people attended matches in 2023. At the same time, Messi’s impact is expected to soon fade, due to the pickiness of American audiences, who often watch other popular sports here such as basketball, baseball or football. They are just curious because Messi comes to American football as the reigning World Cup champion, the 8th reigning Ballon d’Or winner and the best player of all time.
“However, Messi’s appeal remains amazingly strong. It’s even growing stronger. David Beckham, President and co-owner of Inter Miami, had to admit that Messi has taken American football from the 4th or 5th place in the past to the top of American sports today, and is competing equally with the NFL (football) or NBA (professional basketball) in terms of audience and many other aspects. The number of more than 11 million viewers in the 2024 season has proven David Beckham’s words, as it broke the previous record just 1 year ago,” AS emphasized.
The reason Messi continues to fascinate American audiences is because he continues to create miracles on the pitch. The 37-year-old star scores spectacular goals thanks to his outstanding talent, which is his shots from outside the box, or his classy free kicks that have not faded. He is also the catalyst that connects the play with his teammates at Inter Miami, through the MLS Supporters’ Shield championship he just won.
Messi has only played 18 MLS games this year, due to Copa America and injury, but he still managed to score 17 goals and provide 15 assists. He also broke the record for goals scored from direct free kicks, surpassing David Beckham with 66 goals compared to 65.
In addition to the audience factor, Messi has helped MLS continue to grow strongly in terms of revenue. According to data shared by MLS in July this year, ticket sales were up 12% compared to the previous year and the season saw more than 140 official matches sold out. The positive and growing response from the audience has led to an increase in sponsorship and commercial contracts for MLS. Adidas jersey revenue alone increased by 17%. Among them, Inter Miami’s jersey with Messi’s number 10 always occupies the number 1 position.
