Lionel Messi fined for slapping opponent during MLS match

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest soccer player in history, has been fined by Major League Soccer for slapping an opponent during Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with the Philadelphia Union on August 19. The league announced the disciplinary action two days after the match, citing a violation of its policies regarding contact with an opponent’s head. What happened at Subaru Park The incident took place during the second half at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, in what had already been an emotionally charged game. Messi scored a goal and added an assist in the match, marking his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8. During an off-the-ball moment, cameras caught Messi delivering what appeared to be a light slap to the back of Quinn Sullivan’s head. The confrontation stemmed from a verbal exchange over an alleged elbow. The referee intervened to separate the two players but did not issue any cards at the time. MLS reviewed the incident after the final whistle and determined it warranted punishment. The league announced on August 21 that Messi had been fined for the contact. His Inter Miami teammate Ian Fray was also penalized for a separate incide...