Argentine soccer player Lionel Messi received the key to the city of Miami during the America Business Forum, in an emotional ceremony that brought together prominent figures from the worlds of sports, politics, and business.
The event took place at the Kaseya Center and was attended by figures such as President Donald Trump, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, and Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who participated remotely, according to the Miami New Times.
The recognition of Messi came at the end of an interview conducted by Suarez, in which the Inter Miami captain and World Cup champion with Argentina reviewed the highlights of his career and personal life.
The most emotional moment came when the mayor presented the key to the city, and the visibly moved soccer player expressed his gratitude, saying: “I feel very honored by this. We feel very loved, grateful, and happy to live in this city. Receiving this distinction is a great honor.”
The business forum, as detailed by the Miami New Times, brought together figures from various sectors. However, Messi’s participation generated the most excitement. During his talk, the player reminisced about his childhood in Rosario, his time at FC Barcelona, his transition to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and the challenge of emigrating at a young age: “It wasn’t easy. Even though I was always surrounded by people, it was a huge change for me. Everything was new… we had our lives in Rosario. It was starting from scratch,” he recounted.
The footballer also reflected on the significance of lifting the World Cup in Qatar 2022: “It’s difficult to explain and find the words to describe what that title meant on a personal level, for my family, my teammates, and my country. For me, it was special because for a player, winning the World Cup is the ultimate achievement. There’s nothing more to it,” Messi expressed in the interview published by the American media outlet. The athlete emphasized the importance of these achievements by comparing them to his most personal experiences: “I had the same feeling as when my children were born.”
The conversation included references to the difficulties he faced due to his career and the family sacrifices he made. “I missed birthdays and parties because I was at matches or training camps. Now I enjoy those little moments that I couldn’t before,” acknowledged Messi, who also valued the opportunity to accompany his children in their sporting activities.
For the former Barcelona player, the move to Miami was a decision made in agreement with his family and marked a positive difference compared to other professional stages. “I think it means a lot to choose where you want to be and be able to do it. Since I arrived here, it’s been spectacular. First, living in this incredible city. And then, the affection of all the people, which from day one has been impressive,” the striker affirmed.
On a professional level, Messi referred to the growth of soccer in the United States and highlighted that “MLS has made a significant change. We are fortunate to play in packed stadiums everywhere. Soccer has grown tremendously, and it’s reflected every weekend.” The player predicted that the next World Cup will be a milestone: “The 2026 World Cup will be extraordinary because of what the United States is capable of.”
Messi also revealed his interest in the business world: “I have a long sporting career, which at some point will end, and I’d like to start seeing what I can do, where to begin. The business side of things interests me. I’d like to keep learning because I don’t know anything and I’m just starting out in this.”
