Messi becomes first player to win back-to-back MLS Golden Boot awards

Lionel Messi became the first player to win back-to-back MLS Golden Boot awards after scoring 26 goals for Inter Miami this season. In the final regular-season match, Miami drew 3-3 with Charlotte; Messi did not score but set up two goals from corners. Inter finished second in the Eastern Conference with 60 points and secured home advantage for the first two playoff rounds. Nashville won the conference with a record 77 points, while New England finished third with 58.