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Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer after slapping Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during their 2-2 draw on Wednesday.
The incident happened late in the match at Subaru Park after Messi appeared to believe Sullivan had elbowed him following a challenge. As Sullivan turned away, Messi reached out and slapped the back of his head.
Sullivan immediately reacted angrily, but the situation was quickly brought under control by the referee and other players.
MLS confirmed that Messi had been fined for the incident but did not disclose the amount of the penalty.
The 39-year-old Argentine was otherwise a key figure for Inter Miami during the match, scoring his team's second goal. It was his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi.
Messi had recently returned to Miami after traveling to Argentina for his father's funeral. Jorge Messi, who was also his son's longtime agent, died at the age of 68 following a lengthy illness.
In a tribute to his father, Messi reflected on his future in football and suggested that he may not have many years left in his playing career.
Messi was not the only Inter Miami player punished following the heated encounter with Philadelphia.
Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined after grabbing Sullivan around the neck during another confrontation between the players. The incident occurred after Sullivan lost his footing inside the penalty area and became involved in a tangle with Fray.
The match ended in further controversy as two players were shown red cards during stoppage time.
Inter Miami's Yannick Bright was sent off, while Philadelphia midfielder Cavan Sullivan, Quinn's brother, also received a red card.
However, Cavan Sullivan's automatic one-match suspension was later overturned following a review.
The draw kept Inter Miami second in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville.
The result came during an important period for Messi and Miami as they continue their push toward the postseason. Despite the tensions that marked the match, Messi's goal provided a significant personal moment following the loss of his father.
The fine adds another disciplinary issue to an otherwise productive night for the veteran forward, who continues to play a central role for Inter Miami at 39.
Messi's return to form will be particularly important as Miami look to close the gap at the top of the Eastern Conference and maintain their challenge for major honors this season.
