Lionel Messi is the new No.1! Inter Miami superstar becomes first-ever soccer player to sit atop popular athlete list in United States

According to SSRS, a sports research polling company, the Heron's maestro has now overtaken the role of No.1 in the USA. It is the first time in the 30 years they have been polling data that a soccer star tops the charts. In one single quarter, the Argentine has become America's favorite. He joins elite company, too.

The likes of superstars Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Tom Brady make up the other individuals who had only made the No. 1 spot for one-single quarter. In Q4 of 2023, the Argentine joined them, coming off of a stupendous first season in MLS and an inaugural Leagues Cup victory.

Inter Miami has also emerged as America's favorite MLS club, per the same polling site, beating out the LA Galaxy - previous club of co-owner David Beckham.

Speaking of the Galaxy... that's Inter Miami's next stop as they travel to Los Angeles Sunday evening in game two of the 2024 MLS season. They kicked off their campaign Wednesday evening with a victory, defeating Real Salt Lake 2-0.