Messi explains his new celebration after draw with Charlotte FC

• Lionel Messi claims his Marvel-inspired celebrations began with his children after watching superhero movies together
• The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s strike from outside the box was his 96th career goal from outside the box, setting a new record
• Messi could face a misconduct charge if reports of swearing at officials are confirmed

Former Barcelona star Lionel Messi’s magic was on display once again as he delivered a game-tying goal in Inter Miami’s 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC on Saturday night, September 28. The Argentine superstar’s celebration captivated fans worldwide. 

After his 67th-minute equaliser, Messi mimicked Iron Man’s liftoff pose, raising his heels and extending his hands by his sides, signalling to fans and his family at the stands.

This superhero-themed celebration was not Messi’s first. In fact, it’s become a recurring ritual since his debut season with Inter Miami. 

The idea came from his children, with whom he claims he shares a special connection with through their love of Marvel movies. 

“My three sons are still on vacation, have not started school yet, so every night we watch Marvel superhero movies, they came up with the idea and asked that whenever I have a game and score a goal, I do a Marvel superhero celebration,” Messi revealed in an interview last month.

From Thor’s hammer to Spider-Man’s web-slinging, Messi has brought his kids' favorite heroes to life on the pitch. These celebratory moments are reserved for home games, where his children are in the stands to witness them live. Messi shared, “When I see them in the stands, that is when I do them.”

Beyond his superheroic celebration, Messi added yet another milestone to his illustrious career. His goal from outside the box on Saturday marked his 96th of such strike, setting a new record and becoming the player with the highest goal scored from outside the box. The goal took Messi’s MLS tally to 15 league goals for the 2024 season, as he continues his pursuit of the MLS Golden Boot.

However, the match wasn’t without controversy. Following the final whistle, Messi found himself in a heated exchange with the match officials. Frustrated by two rejected penalty appeals, Messi's post-game protests earned him a yellow card, with reports suggesting he even swore at two officials, though this remains unconfirmed.

With an upcoming clash against the reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew on Wednesday, October 2, all eyes will be on Messi and Miami as they chase the coveted MLS Supporters’ Shield. A victory could secure the title and add another trophy to Messi’s growing collection in the U.S.

Ronaldo, Messi are among the 10 most followed people on social media

Previously, TheRadar reported that Cristiano Ronaldo had never been one to settle for ordinary accomplishments. Whether it's smashing goal records on the field or breaking unprecedented ground off it, the Portuguese icon is a relentless force. 

As of now, Ronaldo’s immense following includes 639 million fans on Instagram, 170 million on Facebook, and 113 million on X (formerly Twitter), 61 million on YouTube. His impressive social media achievements and persona, coupled with his on-field success, saw him top Forbes' list of the highest-paid athletes this year, raking in more than $60 million off the pitch aside from salary.