Lionel Messi Extends Record as Most Decorated Footballer with 48th Career Trophy

Lionel Messi has further cemented his legacy as the most decorated footballer in history, securing his 48th career trophy after Inter Miami's triumphant victory in the 2025 MLS Cup. The Argentine maestro continues to redefine the standards of excellence in the sport, adding another glittering prize to his already overflowing trophy cabinet.

Inter Miami's 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup final not only delivered the club its first league title but also marked Messi's fourth trophy with the Florida-based franchise. This latest triumph adds to his previous successes with Inter Miami, including the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters' Shield in 2024.

Messi's journey to 48 trophies is a testament to his unparalleled skill, dedication, and leadership across various clubs and the Argentinian national team. His remarkable career began at Barcelona, where he amassed an astonishing 35 trophies. During his time with the Catalan giants, Messi secured 10 La Liga titles, 7 Copa del Rey titles, and 4 UEFA Champions League crowns. He also won the FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup three times each.

After his illustrious spell in Barcelona, Messi continued to add to his trophy collection with Paris Saint-Germain, winning back-to-back Ligue 1 titles and the Trophée des Champions. However, the most emotionally significant chapter of his career unfolded with the Argentinian national team, where he transformed years of near misses into historic triumphs.

With Argentina, Messi captured the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, ending Argentina's 36-year wait for the coveted trophy. He also won a second Copa América title in 2024. These victories have brought his tally with Argentina to six trophies.

The debate about who is the greatest between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has been reignited as Messi extends his lead over Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 35 titles. While Ronaldo holds the edge in goals scored, with 954 goals compared to Messi's 896, Messi reigns supreme in the number of championships won. Messi has 30 titles at the local level and 18 internationally. In addition to team trophies, Messi has received individual awards, holding a record eight Ballon d'Or awards.

Even at 38, Messi continues to demonstrate his enduring influence and competitiveness. As Inter Miami celebrates its historic MLS Cup victory, the football world recognizes Messi's achievements.