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Major League Soccer (MLS) Commissioner Don Garber has declared 2023 a "transformational year" for the league, attributing the surge in interest to the high-profile addition of Lionel Messi and a groundbreaking broadcast deal with Apple TV. In his annual "state of the league" address leading up to the MLS Cup final between Columbus Crew and Los Angeles FC, Garber outlined the league's notable achievements and challenges.
Garber highlighted the unprecedented impact of Lionel Messi's decision to join MLS, emphasizing that the World Cup champion and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's presence has elevated the league's global standing. Describing MLS as a significant player in the global sports narrative, Garber underscored the league's prominence as one of the summer's most compelling stories.
While anticipating North America's emergence as the "epicenter" of football with the hosting of major tournaments like the World Cup, Copa America, and FIFA Club World Cup, Garber acknowledged the logistical challenges of accommodating all club and country competitions.
Despite the logistical complexities, Garber conveyed optimism about MLS's upward trajectory in various key aspects. The league's expansion in viewership and engagement, fueled in part by the Apple TV partnership, reflects its growing influence on the global sports stage.
As MLS positions itself at the forefront of football conversations, the commissioner's address encapsulates the league's ambitions and its commitment to navigating the intricate landscape of international and domestic competitions.
