Carlos Alcaraz added a unique twist to Inter Miami’s historic night when he walked onto the Chase Stadium pitch in Fort Lauderdale and handed over the Eastern Conference trophy after the club’s 5-1 victory against New York City FC. The gesture marked Inter Miami’s first MLS Cup Final appearance and created a viral moment as the world’s top tennis player shared the stage with Lionel Messi.
Alcaraz joins the celebration
The 22-year-old Spaniard traveled to South Florida to witness one of Inter Miami’s most important matches, watching from the stands as Messi guided the team to its first conference crown. Before kickoff, Alcaraz greeted Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez, while an early exchange of eye contact with Messi hinted at the significance of the evening. The club later presented him with a personalized pink kit bearing the name “Carlitos 99.”
Messi and Alcaraz reconnect
More than two years after their first meeting at the Laureus Awards, Alcaraz and Messi reunited in front of thousands of fans. Once the final whistle blew, Alcaraz was invited onto the field for the trophy ceremony. Carrying the silverware to the stage, he passed it to the club’s owners before it reached Messi’s hands. The two stars then embraced warmly, exchanged words, and posed for photos, sealing a moment that resonated across social media.
Off-court highlight for Alcaraz
For Alcaraz, the evening was a rare off-season highlight, blending his tennis journey with football culture. The crossover appearance underscored his growing global profile and showcased the unity between two of the most celebrated athletes of their generation.
As Alcaraz prepares for upcoming exhibition fixtures in the United States, the Miami celebration stands out as a reminder of his influence beyond tennis. For Messi and Inter Miami, the trophy presentation symbolized both achievement and the shared joy of sport, marking a milestone in the club’s rise on the American stage.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Currently the world no.1, Alcaraz played his last match on the 16th of November when he was defeated by world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
At present, during this year the Spaniard achieved a 71-9 record. Carlos has won 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. Alcaraz was the runner-up in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.