Watch Lionel Messi Score Historic 900th Career Goal in Inter Miami's Game vs. Nashville SC

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi hit another major milestone in his legendary career.

With a goal in the seventh minute against Nashville SC, he now has 900 total for club and country.

Here's how that breaks down by team:

• Barcelona: 672
• Paris Saint-Germain: 32
• Inter Miami: 81
• Argentina: 115

Most would probably consider Messi as superior on the pitch to Cristiano Ronaldo, his longtime competitive rival. He has eight Ballon d'Or wins to five for Ronaldo, more wins in head-to-head matches, and his World Cup triumph with Argentina in 2022 trumps Cristiano lifting a Euro 2016 trophy with Portugal.

Cristiano does have a decisive edge in goals, though. His career tally is up to 965 and counting, and he could be the first men's player ever to reach 1,000. Brazilian club Santos claims Pele had 1,091 goals, but that number isn't officially recognized.

That's one benchmark Messi may not reach.

The 38-year-old has been prolific in MLS. He scored 29 goals in 26 appearances last season and already has four to open the 2026 campaign counting Wednesday's goal in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

The two-time MVP is signed through 2028 as well, so he isn't planning to retire soon.

Still, Messi's age has to catch up to him at some point. If the past is an indicator, he could also hit a bit of a post-World Cup lull, assuming he takes part. His form at PSG tailed off once he returned from the 2022 tournament.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni hasn't finalized his squad yet, but it's hard to imagine Messi being omitted as long as he's healthy. Balancing the World Cup and Inter Miami's MLS Cup defense will require a heavy burden.

Inter boss Javier Mascherano has already cited the need to manage Messi's workload, and that's going to be even more acute midway through the summer.

In terms of chasing down Ronaldo, sitting out matches for Inter Miami will cost Messi valuable time.