It’s something only Lionel Messi can truly achieve, a new record that speaks volumes about one of the most important, if not the most important, football players in history.
Messi scored a goal for Inter Miami against Porto from a direct free kick, opening the record books to reveal a truly legendary record for the 38-year-old.
From 2010 to 2025, Lionel Messi has scored more direct free kicks than penalties, confirming the extent to which the Flea has mastered one of the most difficult skills in world football.
Messi also scored 34 free kicks and 33 penalties between 2018 and 2025, whether with Barcelona, Argentina, Paris Saint-Germain, or Inter Miami.
Messi is on the verge of becoming the player with the most direct free kicks in history.
With his goal against Porto, Messi reached 68 goals from free kicks, two behind Pelé, the second-highest scorer of all time.
The Inter Miami star is nine behind the most successful free kicks in the history of this special feature, Brazilian Juninho, who has 77 successful free kicks.
Messi could practically break this record next season, given Inter Miami’s numerous matches and Argentina commitments, as well as his recent prolific free kick output.
It’s worth noting that Messi has increased his overall goal contribution to 1,250, including both goals and assists, in 1,106 appearances in all competitions.
