Trump beams in first Messi meeting

U.S. President Donald Trump beamed with excitement on Thursday as he welcomed Inter Miami CF and football icon Lionel Messi to the White House following their 2025 MLS Cup triumph.

Trump described the moment as historic, telling guests it was the first time an American president had the opportunity to personally welcome Messi at the White House.

“And it’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before,” Trump said. “Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi.”

The president appeared particularly enthusiastic while recounting how his son reacted upon learning that the Argentine superstar would be part of the delegation.

“My son said, ‘Dad, you know who’s going to be there today?’” Trump said. “I said, ‘No, I’ve got a lot of things going on.’ He said, ‘Messi.’ I said, ‘Really?’”

Trump added that the encounter meant a lot to his family, noting that his son had long admired the football legend.

“He’s a big fan,” the president said. “He thinks you’re just a great person.”

The White House ceremony honoured Inter Miami’s championship run after they defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3–1 in December to secure the MLS Cup title.

Trump praised the team’s achievement and the global impact of football stars such as Messi.

“Some big champions, some great, great athletes in that sport,” he said. “People really love what they’re doing, and they’re doing it well.”

The president also mentioned Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo during his remarks, highlighting the rivalry and admiration shared among football’s biggest names.

“We have Cristiano — he’s great,” Trump said. “You’re great too. Boy, some big champions.”

Messi’s appearance marked a notable White House moment after a previous invitation had gone unfulfilled. In 2024, former U.S. president Joe Biden awarded Messi the Presidential Medal of Freedom, but the football star did not attend the ceremony in person.

This time, however, Messi arrived alongside his Inter Miami teammates to celebrate their championship season and be recognised by the U.S. president.

Trump had previously hosted Ronaldo at the White House last year, making the Messi visit another high-profile meeting between the administration and one of football’s global icons.

“It’s an honor for us and everybody at the White House to be honoring you today,” Trump told the team, smiling as he looked toward Messi and the Inter Miami squad gathered beside him.