Lionel Messi fined by MLS for slapping Quinn Sullivan

Major League Soccer has fined Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi for striking Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during a 2-2 draw on Wednesday.

The 39-year-old Argentina international slapped Sullivan on the back of the head late in the match, claiming the Union player had elbowed him after a pass. Sullivan reacted angrily to the physical confrontation before the referee intervened to separate the players. The league confirmed the disciplinary action but declined to disclose the financial penalty.

Heated clashes and red cards

The altercation highlighted a deeply fractious encounter at Subaru Park. The league also penalised Miami defender Ian Fray for grabbing Sullivan by the neck after the pair tangled when the Philadelphia player lost his footing in the penalty area.

The bad-tempered fixture culminated in two stoppage-time dismissals. The referee sent off Miami’s Yannick Bright alongside Sullivan’s brother Cavan, though officials subsequently rescinded Cavan’s one-match suspension following a formal review.

Despite the disciplinary issues, Messi managed to score Miami’s second goal of the evening. The match marked his return to club duties after travelling to Argentina for the funeral of his 68-year-old father and long-time agent Jorge Messi, who died following a prolonged illness.

In a recent tribute to his father, the forward hinted that his professional playing career may be nearing its conclusion.

Inter Miami currently sit second in the Eastern Conference standings, trailing league leaders Nashville by seven points.