Lionel Messi Wins Second Consecutive MLS Golden Boot

Golden Boot win

Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi has won the 2026 MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi, netting 26 goals to become the league's top scorer for the second consecutive season. Messi also provided 17 assists to tally a league-best 43 goal contributions this year.

Historical context

Messi is the first player in MLS history to win back-to-back Golden Boot awards. He is the sixth player to win the honor twice, joining Bradley Wright-Phillips (2014, '16), Chris Wondolowski (2010, '12), Jeff Cunningham (2006, '09), Taylor Twellman (2002, '05) and Preki (1997, 2003).

2026 season statistics

In his fourth MLS season, Messi led the league in goals once again, scoring 26 times across 31 regular-season matches. He ranked first in goals per game (0.87), first in goal contributions (43), tied for first in multi-goal games (six), and second in goals per 90 minutes (0.91). Of Messi's 26 regular-season goals, only one came from a penalty kick, giving him 25 non-penalty goals, the second-most in a single season in MLS history behind his own record of 28 in 2025.

Why it matters

Messi's 43 goal contributions in 2026 were the third-most in a single season in league history. Over the last three seasons, Messi has totaled 127 goal contributions, which is 28 more than the next closest player in a three-season span in league history (Evander, 98 from 2024-26).

Sources

• mlssoccer.com: Inter Miami's Lionel Messi wins 2026 MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi | MLSSoccer.com
• intermiamicf.com: Leo Messi Adds Another Milestone by Becoming First Player in MLS History to Secure the Golden Boot in Consecutive Seasons | Inter Miami CF

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.