(VOVWORLD) - The Argentinean soccer legend was named Time Magazine’s Athlete of the Year on Tuesday following his move to the US through MLS club Inter Miami.
The 36-year-old then moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami in July and quickly established himself as one of the biggest icons in US sports, introducing himself by scoring from a stunning last-minute free-kick on his debut.
"Lionel Messi this year managed to do what once seemed impossible, when he signed with Inter Miami: turning the US into a soccer country," Time said.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner made an instant impact on Miami's fortunes, playing a pivotal role in helping the team win the expanded Leagues Cup, a cross-border competition for teams from MLS and Mexico's top flight.
In October, Messi won the Ballon d’Or award after being voted as the best male player in world soccer for a record-breaking eight time.