Messi fined for slapping opponent Player

22/08/2026

Pennsylvania, Aug 22: Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer after slapping Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during their 2-2 draw on Wednesday. Messi, 39, struck Sullivan on the back of the head late in the match after appearing to complain that the player had elbowed him following a challenge. Sullivan reacted angrily, but the referee intervened before the confrontation escalated.

MLS confirmed Messi had been fined but did not disclose the amount. Inter Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined after grabbing Sullivan by the neck during another clash. The bad-tempered match ended with two red cards, although Sullivan’s brother, Cavan, had his one-game suspension rescinded after a review. Messi scored Miami’s second goal, his first since the death of his father.