Legendary athletes Serena Williams and LeBron James, alongside reality stars Kim Kardashian and Marc Anthony, were among the household names spotted at Lionel Messi’s debut at Inter Miami, bringing the worlds of sports and entertainment together in a star-studded event.
In a thrilling Leagues Cup matchup against Cruz Azul of Liga MX, the Argentina captain made his eagerly anticipated debut for the American club. Messi’s debut delivered a memorable and dramatic event, captivating the DRV PNK Stadium with a show of talent and glamour.
Fans had been waiting impatiently to see Messi’s magic, and he did not disappoint. As Inter Miami’s 54th-minute substitute, Lionel Messi, took the pitch, the DRV PNK Stadium crowd was on the edge of their seats. The Argentine maestro entered the field with Inter Miami leading 1-0, but the Mexican side equalized soon after.
Good morning to everyone, *especially* Lionel Messi. pic.twitter.com/yO1aLRiZHe
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 22, 2023
However, Messi secured a memorable victory for his new team and left the crowd in awe of his talent with a heavenly free-kick that came as a sensational 94th-minute winner in a stunning display of skill and tenacity.
Miami becomes a soccer carnival on the day of the debut of Lionel Messi for Inter Miami
LeBron James, Serena Williams, Kim Kardashian, and Marc Anthony were all present in the VIP suites, hoping to be braced by the brilliance of the Argentine magician. The VIP suites, true to Miami spirit, were literally meters away from the players, providing an intimate view of the match.
Lionel Messi is THE CELEBRITY to your favorite celebrities 😂😂
The celebrity of celebrities.
More than a goat 🐐 pic.twitter.com/MgUMte8Dli
— Edmund 💉 (@EdmundOris) July 22, 2023
In addition, the spectators spotted the famous YouTuber, Ishowspeed, among them, further adding to the excitement of the event. The rapper is famous for his love and fanaticism for Cristiano Ronaldo. Before kickoff, fireworks lit up the sky as Latina singer Becky G sang the national anthem. Messi was also seen hugging LeBron and greeting friends and family while taking in the momentous occasion.
LeBron James 🤝 Lionel Messi
— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) July 22, 2023
Fans were still circulating the area hours after the game, chanting “Messi, Messi, Messi.” Outside the parking lots, car horns honked.
The debut of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami was a celebration of soccer brilliance that went beyond the bounds of the game. The DRV PNK Stadium evolved into a hive of fervor, admiration, and unbridled love for the game, attracting everyone from renowned celebrities to devoted followers.