During the 2024 MLS preseason, Messi's Inter Miami went on a world tour that saw them stop and play in Asia against Vissel Kobe and a Hong Kong XI. Against the latter, however, the Heron' maestro sat out the match due to what he explained was 'pain in his adductor.'
As a result, there was uproar from fans and the Chinese government over him sitting out, with one official going as far as saying he should be banned from the country.