Inter Miami's Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during their league draw on Wednesday. The incident occurred toward the end of the match, which finished 2-2, as Messi reacted to what he perceived as Sullivan elbowing him after he played the ball.
Sullivan responded angrily to the physical contact, but the match officials intervened. MLS confirmed a fine was issued, though the specific amount was not disclosed. Messi scored Inter Miami's second goal in the game, marking his first goal since the passing of his father.
The match saw other disciplinary actions. Miami's Ian Fray was also fined by MLS for grabbing Sullivan's neck after both players became entangled and Sullivan lost his footing. The game concluded with two red cards in stoppage time, involving Miami's Yannick Bright and Sullivan's brother, Cavan. However, Cavan Sullivan's one-game suspension was later rescinded following a review.