Footage captured Messi placing his hands on the back of Ballouchy's neck during a heated exchange, prompting MLS's disciplinary committee to review the situation. In an official statement, the league confirmed that Messi's actions violated their "Hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent" policy, resulting in the fine.
This confrontation came after Messi had already displayed frustration toward match officials. Following the final whistle, he was seen arguing with referee Alexis Da Silva, leading to a yellow card for dissent as he headed toward the tunnel. The heated moment capped off a tense match that ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Inter Miami's Chase Stadium.
Messi played a key role in the game, assisting Telasco Segovia's stoppage-time equalizer. Earlier, he had also set up Tomas Avilés for Miami's first goal before Avilés was sent off for denying NYCFC's Alonso Martinez a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Messi wasn't the only Miami player disciplined for physical contact. Luis Suárez was also fined after placing his hands on the neck of NYCFC defender Birk Risa during the first half of the match.
This latest incident adds to Messi's ongoing frustrations with refereeing decisions in MLS. Just days before, controversy surrounded a different match when the referee of Inter Miami's Concacaf Champions League opener against Sporting Kansas City was disciplined for asking Messi for his jersey after the game. In that match, played in freezing conditions in Kansas City, Messi scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory.
Despite his incredible performances, Messi has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with officiating in the U.S. His fiery reaction against NYCFC, coupled with previous confrontations, highlights growing tensions between the Argentine superstar and MLS referees.
While the league has not disclosed the exact amount of Messi's fine, the punishment underscores MLS's commitment to enforcing disciplinary standards, even when dealing with its biggest stars.
