Son Heung Min wins prestigious award, beating Messi

Outperforming superstar Lionel Messi in a fan vote, Son Heung Min impressively claimed the “Most Beautiful Goal of MLS 2025” title, solidifying his status as a top Asian star.

Despite continuing his outstanding form with Inter Miami, superstar Lionel Messi surprisingly lost the “Goal of the Year 2025” award to Son Heung Min of Los Angeles FC (LAFC), one of the season’s standout newcomers.

According to the latest announcement from Major League Soccer (MLS), Son’s stunning free-kick goal against FC Dallas in August was voted by fans as the “Goal of the Year 2025,” surpassing Messi’s exceptional solo effort during Inter Miami’s 4-1 victory over Montreal in Round 22. Son’s free kick was also his first MLS goal praised for its flawless technique, precise trajectory, and cool finish, leaving the opposing goalkeeper helpless.

Meanwhile, Messi’s goal, the fourth in Inter Miami’s win over Montreal, was also highly impressive. The Argentine superstar made a powerful run, beating two defenders before firing a shot from a tight angle. However, the final votes favored Son Heung Min, making him the first Asian player in MLS history to win this award.

Messi is still having an incredible season. At 38 years old, he has scored 29 goals in 28 matches, won the MLS Golden Boot 2025, and is a leading candidate for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Nevertheless, losing to Son in the “Most Beautiful Goal” category highlights the increasing competitiveness in MLS, which attracts many world-class stars.

Joining LAFC from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, Son Heung Min quickly adapted and became a key player for the California club. In just 10 games, he scored 9 goals and provided 3 assists, playing a major role in helping LAFC reach the playoffs.

American media consider Son’s victory not only a symbolic breakthrough for Asian players but also a testament to MLS’s growing global appeal in the new era.