Lionel Messi has been slapped with a $10,000 fine by Major League Soccer (MLS) after an altercation with Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during a match on Wednesday.
The incident occurred towards the end of the 2-2 draw between Inter Miami and the Union, with Messi slapping Sullivan around the back of the head after complaining he had been elbowed. Sullivan reacted angrily but the referee intervened quickly to prevent further escalation.
The MLS confirmed the fine but did not reveal the amount until later. Messi's actions were not an isolated incident, as teammate Ian Fray was also fined for grabbing Sullivan's neck after the two players became tangled up.
The match was marked by bad-tempered exchanges, with two red cards being handed out in stoppage time. Miami's Yannick Bright and Sullivan's brother Cavan were both sent off, but Cavan's one-game suspension has since been rescinded after review.
Miami are currently second in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville. The team has been dealing with the loss of their father and agent, Jorge Messi, who died aged 68 following a long illness.
In a tribute to his father, Messi had suggested he may not continue playing football for much longer. However, he has since returned to Miami and continued to play, scoring the second goal for his team in the 2-2 draw.
The incident has sparked debate about the level of discipline in MLS, with some calling for harsher penalties for players who engage in similar behavior. The league has yet to comment on whether this will be the case for future incidents.
As Miami look to continue their strong run in the league, they will be hoping to put the controversy behind them and focus on their next match.
Source: BBC Sports
