Messi Responds to Hong Kong No-Show Backlash, Denies Political Motives

The controversy prompts a review of Hong Kong's sports event funding, while Messi's move boosts MLS ticket prices.

Lionel Messi addresses backlash over his absence from a Hong Kong friendly, citing injury and denying political motives.
Messi's absence sparks a review of Hong Kong's government handouts for major sporting events, with changes expected by the third quarter of the year.
Chinese fans and officials express anger, leading to the cancellation of Argentina's friendlies in China.
Messi's move to Inter Miami has significantly increased ticket prices in the MLS, likened to watching Michael Jordan at his peak.
Despite Messi's explanations, skepticism and disappointment persist among fans and officials in Hong Kong and mainland China.