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Trump Welcomes MLS Cup Winners to the White House and Hails Messi as ‘Better Than Pelé’
U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Major League Soccer champions Inter Miami CF to the White House this week, celebrating their 2025 MLS Cup victory and praising Argentine superstar Lionel Messi as one of the greatest players the world has ever seen.
The ceremony took place in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., where Trump honoured the club after their historic 3–1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the MLS Cup 2025.
Trump praises Messi
During his speech, Trump singled out Messi for special praise, reflecting on football legends he had watched during his lifetime. The president told the audience he had once seen Brazilian icon Pelé play for the New York Cosmos, before suggesting Messi might even surpass the legendary striker.
Turning toward the Argentine star, Trump said: “You may be better than Pelé,” before jokingly asking the crowd who they believed was the greatest player of all time.
The comment drew laughter and applause from the audience as Messi stood alongside his teammates during the ceremony.
Celebrating Inter Miami’s historic season
The White House visit marked a historic moment for Inter Miami, which captured its first MLS title in 2025 after Messi joined the club in 2023 and helped transform its fortunes.
Messi was named MLS Cup MVP and also secured the league’s Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season, cementing his influence on American football.
During the event, Messi presented Trump with a customised Inter Miami jersey and a decorative pink football as a gesture of appreciation from the team.
A mix of sport and politics
The event also included remarks from club officials and Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber, who praised the team’s impact on the growth of football in the United States. Inter Miami owner David Beckham has previously said the club’s success demonstrates that MLS can compete with the biggest leagues in the world.
While the ceremony focused mainly on football, Trump briefly touched on international politics during his speech before returning to celebrate Messi and the team’s achievements.
Messi’s quiet moment
Despite the attention surrounding him, Messi remained largely quiet throughout the ceremony, listening as Trump praised his achievements and influence on global football.
The visit marked the Argentine legend’s first appearance at the White House since joining the MLS, highlighting how his arrival in the United States has elevated the sport’s profile across the country.
For many fans, the moment symbolised how one of the greatest players in football history continues to make headlines—even when standing beside the president of the United States.
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Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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