VIDEO: A Moment for History: Messi and LeBron Share the GOAT Greeting Fans Dreamed Of

Lionel Messi and LeBron James shared a rare GOAT-to-GOAT moment on November 28 during Inter Miami’s 4-0 win over Cincinnati FC in the MLS Eastern Conference Semifinals. The meeting happened near the touchline as Messi approached James before kickoff. The main keyword, Messi and LeBron Share the GOAT Greeting, captures the energy of an encounter fans had long waited to see.

The two global icons exchanged a warm hug and a brief conversation. Their interaction quickly spread across social media as supporters celebrated the respect between two of the greatest athletes of their generation. Messi later delivered another standout performance, helping Inter Miami reach the MLS Cup Eastern Conference Playoffs final.

The GOAT Greeting That Went Viral

Messi spotted LeBron on the sidelines just moments before the match. The NBA legend smiled, opened his arms, and greeted Messi with clear admiration. The clip showed LeBron expressing genuine excitement, which added to the emotional response from fans across football and basketball communities. Outlets such as the Associated Press highlighted the significance of the moment due to the combined cultural influence of both stars.

Messi then delivered on the field. He has been in dominant form during the 2025 MLS season with 35 goals and 21 assists in 32 games. His performance against Cincinnati reinforced Inter Miami’s push toward another deep postseason run. The match also sparked conversation after some Cincinnati players were criticized online for showing too much admiration toward Messi despite the loss.

Why This GOAT Moment Matters for Sports Fans

The Messi and LeBron meeting carried symbolic weight. Fans rarely witness two of the most accomplished athletes in modern sports share such a natural moment of mutual respect. Their handshake and hug highlighted the crossover between football and basketball culture, with many supporters calling it a “dream moment.”

The encounter also boosted MLS visibility. Messi’s presence has already increased audience reach, and LeBron’s appearance amplified attention surrounding the semifinal. For Inter Miami supporters, it was another reminder of Messi’s global pull and the excitement he continues to generate in the league.

Find someone who hugs you the way LeBron hugs Messi 🫂

🎥 IG/mls pic.twitter.com/SDCqHBjOMr

— 433 (@433) November 29, 2025

Messi and LeBron Share the GOAT Greeting in a moment fans will remember for years. Their meeting added emotion to a high-stakes MLS playoff night and strengthened the connection between two of the greatest athletes in sports history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Messi and LeBron meet during the MLS semifinal?

LeBron attended Inter Miami’s semifinal match, and Messi greeted him on the touchline before kickoff. Their moment instantly gained attention for its emotional impact.

Q2: How did fans react to the GOAT greeting?

Fans celebrated the meeting across social platforms. Many called it a historic crossover moment between global sports icons.

Q3: How is Messi performing in the 2025 MLS season?

Messi has delivered 35 goals and 21 assists in 32 games. His form has pushed Inter Miami into the MLS Eastern Conference final.

Q4: Did LeBron comment publicly about the meeting?

As of now, no direct comments have been published. However, his visible excitement and admiration during the interaction were evident on broadcast footage.

Q5: What does this moment mean for MLS visibility?

The appearance of an NBA superstar with Messi brought major attention to MLS. It boosted viewership and highlighted the league’s growing cultural reach.