Lionel Messi named Time Magazine's Athlete of the Year 2023

Publish date: Wednesday، 06 December 2023

Time Magazine has crowned Lionel Messi as the "Athlete of the Year" for 2023, acknowledging his exceptional season characterized by his eighth Ballon d'Or win and his groundbreaking transition to Major League Soccer's Inter Miami.

Read More: Messi Inter Miami Transfer

The Argentine soccer star, praised by Time for reshaping the American sporting scene, made a historic impact by signing with Inter Miami and sparking a surge of interest in soccer within a country traditionally inclined towards other sports.

Stepping onto the field for Miami in July after a contentious departure from Paris Saint-Germain, the 36-year-old Messi disregarded a move to Saudi Arabia, opting instead for a new chapter in MLS.

Lionel Messi named Time Magazine's Athlete of the Year 2023

Despite an injury sidelining him towards the season's end, Messi's influence was intense as he played an important role in Miami's triumph in the expanded Leagues Cup, tallying 11 goals in 14 appearances across various competitions.

In an interview with Time, Messi revealed his initial desire for a return to Barcelona post-PSG, saddened by the club's financial constraints. He deliberated between the Saudi Pro League and MLS, ultimately choosing the latter.

Lionel Messi named Time Magazine's Athlete of the Year 2023

Time highlighted the impact of Messi's arrival, citing a surge in attendance, ticket sales, merchandise, and viewership. On his debut day, subscriptions to Apple TV, holding exclusive MLS rights, skyrocketed by 110,000, a 1,700% surge from the first day.

Lionel Messi named Time Magazine's Athlete of the Year 2023

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