MLS fines Messi for slapping opponent in Philadelphia Union match

Lionel Messi, the captain of Inter Miami, has been fined by Major League Soccer (MLS) for an incident during the team's match against the Philadelphia Union on August 19. The league's Disciplinary Committee imposed an undisclosed financial penalty on the Argentine star for violating the tournament's policy regarding physical contact with an opponent's face, head, or neck.

The altercation occurred in stoppage time when Messi made contact with Quinn Sullivan, delivering a slap to the head. Although the referee did not penalize the action during the game, the MLS Disciplinary Committee reviewed the incident, leading to the financial sanction.

Fortunately for Inter Miami, Messi's infraction resulted in a fine rather than a suspension. He will therefore be available for Inter Miami's next match against Toronto FC, scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 PM.