Lionel Messi, who recently led Inter Miami to victory in the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, visited the White House on March 5, 2026, along with his teammates. They were received by U.S. President Donald Trump as part of a celebration recognizing their achievement. During this event, Trump famously asked the crowd who they believed was the better footballer, Messi or Pelé. His inquiry sparked laughter among the players and highlighted Messi's significant impact in the sport during his time in the MLS.

Trump praised Messi's performance, emphasizing the pressure he faced and how few players can thrive under such circumstances. He jokingly referred to his son's admiration for both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo before posing the question to the audience once more. The players of Inter Miami responded overwhelmingly in favor of Messi, suggesting a strong recognition of his talent and skills within the current sports culture.

This light-hearted moment reflects not only the growing prominence of soccer in the United States but also the cultural phenomenon of discussing football legends. While the debate of who is the greatest of all time often includes names like Pelé and Messi, Trump's question at such a high-profile event further elevates Messi's status, particularly among American fans who are increasingly embracing soccer as a mainstream sport. This acknowledgment from a sitting president can have significant implications for the sport's viewership and engagement in the U.S.