In an unexpected turn of events, Lionel Messi's stint in the Major League Soccer (MLS) playoffs has come to an abrupt end as the top-seeded Inter Miami suffered a surprising loss to ninth-seeded Atlanta United. This outcome has left fans reeling, especially given the immense popularity of Messi worldwide.

Since Messi's highly anticipated arrival in MLS in 2023, the league has been on a mission to not only capitalize on his star power but also to ensure long-term growth and sustainability once he eventually departs. The recent playoff exit of Inter Miami, despite their successful run with Messi, has now sparked discussions on the future trajectory of the league without the iconic forward.

Inter Miami has undeniably leveraged Messi's presence to the fullest extent, from boosting attendance figures to securing lucrative sponsorship deals. While the team's elimination from the postseason was a setback, they are dedicated to enhancing their fanbase and solidifying their global presence, even in Messi's absence.

The league, too, has benefitted from Messi's tenure, recording record numbers in attendance, ticket sales, and digital engagements. With Apple as a major media partner, the increased viewership and subscription rates during Messi's matches have been notable, showcasing the impact of his star status on MLS.

However, as MLS moves forward without Messi in the playoffs, there is a pressing question of whether the league can maintain its momentum and attract viewership beyond just matches involving the Argentine star. With the remaining teams in the postseason hailing from major media markets and promising competitive matchups, MLS has an opportunity to showcase its product on a larger scale.

The absence of Messi in the playoffs serves as a test for MLS to demonstrate its appeal and sustainability without a marquee player. The viewer data following these playoffs will be crucial in evaluating the league's future strategies and potential areas for growth.

As debates swirl around the impact of Messi's exit on MLS, fans and analysts are divided on the league's next steps and its ability to thrive without relying solely on star power.

Stay tuned for more updates on the MLS playoffs and the evolving landscape of professional soccer in the United States.

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