Messi fined after slapping Quinn Sullivan in MLS draw

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer after slapping Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during their 2-2 draw at Subaru Park on Wednesday, the league confirmed but did not disclose the amount.

The incident occurred towards the end of the match when Messi, 39, struck Sullivan around the back of the head after he complained that Sullivan had elbowed him following a play on the ball; Sullivan reacted angrily and the referee intervened.

MLS announced disciplinary action beyond Messi’s fine: Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined after he grabbed the neck of Sullivan when the two players became tangled as Sullivan lost his footing in the box.

The contest was ill-tempered in stoppage time, with two red cards shown — Miami’s Yannick Bright and Sullivan’s brother, Cavan, were both sent off in the closing moments of the game.

Cavan Sullivan’s one-game suspension, however, has now been rescinded after review, according to the report, while Messi’s goal for Miami at Subaru Park was his first since his father’s death.

Messi had been in Argentina for his father’s funeral; Jorge Messi died aged 68 following a long illness, and in a tribute Messi suggested he may not continue playing football for much longer.

The draw leaves Inter Miami second in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville.