Lionel Messi stepped into the spotlight once again in Miami — though this time far from the pitch. The Inter Miami captain was honored with the Key to the City, a distinction presented by mayor Francis Suarez during his appearance at the prestigious American Business Forum, one of the most influential international events of the year.

The ceremony marked a meaningful milestone for the Argentine star, who received the tribute visibly moved and with words of gratitude toward the city that has embraced him since his arrival in 2023.

A Recognition of Messi’s Impact on Miami

The American Business Forum gathered global heavyweights including former U.S. president Donald Trump, 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado, Argentina’s president Javier Milei, tennis legend Rafael Nadal, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, and other high-profile figures across sports, tech, and finance such as Jamie Dimon, Ken Griffin, Stefano Domenicali, and Adam Neumann.

Within that elite setting, Messi was honored for his sporting and social influence in South Florida. His arrival has boosted the city’s global visibility, accelerated the growth of local football, and fueled the economic expansion surrounding Inter Miami.

Messi accepted the key with heartfelt sincerity:
“I feel very honored by this. We feel loved, grateful, and happy to live in this city. Receiving this distinction is a great honor.”

He also emphasized how meaningful it was to choose his own destination after more than two decades in Europe:
“It means a lot to be able to choose where you want to be. Since I arrived here, everything has been spectacular… The affection from the people has been incredible from day one.”

Messi Opens Up About His Personal Life

In a later interview, Messi shared some of his most intimate reflections. He acknowledged the sacrifices that come with a life in elite football — celebrations, family moments, birthdays he could never attend.
“I missed birthdays or parties because I was in matches or in training camps. Now I enjoy those little moments I couldn’t before.”

He added that being able to accompany his children in their sports activities is something he treasures deeply — a luxury that his career rarely allowed.

Barcelona, PSG and the National Team: His Most Emotional Memories

Messi revisited key chapters of his career with Barcelona, PSG, and of course, the unforgettable 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
“It’s hard to explain what that title meant. For a player, winning the World Cup is the ultimate. There is nothing above that. I had the same feeling as when my kids were born.”

MLS and the 2026 World Cup: A Growing Football Landscape

Asked about the rise of soccer in the United States, Messi noted that MLS is experiencing historic growth:
“We have full stadiums everywhere. Football has grown a lot and you can see it every weekend.”

He also previewed what the 2026 World Cup will represent for the country:
“It will be extraordinary because of what the United States is capable of.”