A study published by The Economist indicates that soccer has become the third most popular sport in the United States, surpassing baseball. It reports that 10% of Americans now consider soccer their favorite sport compared to 9% for baseball, while American football leads with about 37% and basketball follows with approximately 17%. This shift in preference illustrates a notable rise in the sport's popularity among American audiences.

The American Professional Soccer League credits a significant part of this transformation to the arrival of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi at Inter Miami. Since joining the team, Messi has not only brought increased visibility to the league but has also led the team to win three historic titles: the Leagues Cup in 2023, the Supporters' Shield in 2024, and the MLS Cup in 2025. His performance has been outstanding, as he has scored 77 goals and assisted in 41, making him the all-time leading scorer and contributor in the club's history.

Furthermore, the league highlighted the importance of having other international stars join, enhancing the competitive nature and visibility of soccer in the US. This influx of talent and the success of Messi at Inter Miami have contributed to a burgeoning interest in soccer, showcasing its potential to thrive alongside more traditional American sports and possibly reshape the sports landscape in the country.