On Monday, MLS announced that the 2025 AT&T Goal of the Year, chosen through fan voting, has been awarded to LAFC forward Heung-Min Son. He won this honor over Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi for his outstanding free-kick goal against FC Dallas on August 23, where he curved the ball into the top corner from the edge of the box, leaving the goalkeeper unable to react.
This goal was Son’s first for LAFC, coming in just his third match since joining from Tottenham Hotspur on August 6. The 33-year-old made a significant impact on MLS fans and his new teammates with his skillful play.
Even though the match ended in a 1-1 draw, Son’s initial goal in the sixth minute impressed both LAFC supporters and the home crowd. His presence helped LAFC improve its performance, as they finished third in the Western Conference. In just 10 matches, Son scored nine goals and provided three assists, while his jersey became the second-best seller in the league, a remarkable achievement given his late arrival.
The MLS AT&T Goal of the Year award has been given annually since 1996, celebrating the season’s best goal through fan votes on the league’s official website.
Heung Min Son of the Los Angeles Football Club.
Son’s Background
Son made his move to LAFC after spending ten years with Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, where he scored 173 goals and provided 101 assists across all competitions. He was also the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot, achieving this in the 2021-22 season.
Messi’s Nomination
Lionel Messi’s nominated goal happened against CF Montreal on Matchday 22 of the MLS season. He started near the midfield and maneuvered through the opposing defense before scoring with a stunning solo effort, a moment many believed deserved the top honor.
Despite not winning the Goal of the Year, Messi finished the 2025 regular season on a high note, securing his first MLS Golden Boot on the final matchday, adding another achievement to his illustrious career.