<p>Lionel Messi already sits atop the soccer world as arguably the greatest player ever. But the Inter Miami star isn't interested in reflecting on what he's accomplished just yet.</p> <p>Speaking at the America Business Summit in Miami on Wednesday, the 38-year-old made it clear his focus remains on the present. When asked about his legacy, Messi said he'll save that conversation for after he hangs up his boots.</p> <p>"It's not something I've thought about or worried about," Messi said in Spanish. "When I retire, as the years go by, obviously I'll value everything I did in my career and what I achieved professionally much more."</p> <h2>What Did Messi Say About Retirement?</h2> <p>The World Cup champion for Argentina and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner told the conference that now isn't the time for looking back. He's got a contract with Inter Miami through 2028, so retirement doesn't appear imminent.</p> <p>"But today is the time to keep enjoying myself and to keep playing," Messi said. He was the final speaker on the first day of the summit, following President Donald Trump, Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.</p> <p>Miami Mayor Francis Suarez interviewed Messi and presented him with a ceremonial key to the city when their talk wrapped up. The arena, mostly filled with business executives, gave Messi several loud ovations.</p> <h2>How Has Messi Performed in MLS?</h2> <p>At 38, Messi's still playing at an elite level. He scored a league-best 29 goals in this year's MLS regular season, five more than LAFC's Denis Bouanga and Nashville's Sam Surridge.</p> <p>He also tallied 19 assists. His 48 total goal contributions came one shy of matching the MLS record of 49 set by Carlos Vela in 2019.</p> <p>Messi won the Major League Soccer MVP award last year and is a heavy favourite to become the league's first back-to-back MVP this season. Not bad for someone who joined Inter Miami midway through 2023.</p> <h2>What's Next for Inter Miami?</h2> <p>Messi and Inter Miami face a win-or-else Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against Nashville SC on Saturday night. The match takes place at the team's home park in Fort Lauderdale.</p> <p>The club announced Wednesday that its new stadium near Miami International Airport is reaching a major construction milestone. The final beams for the stadium canopy are being raised.</p> <p>"I'm really anxious, really looking forward to it being finished, to be able to play there," Messi said. He signed a three-year extension with Inter Miami last year.</p> <h2>How Does Messi Feel About Life in Miami?</h2> <p>The Argentine superstar couldn't hide his appreciation for his adopted home. "It is spectacular, my first time living in this incredible city," Messi said.</p> <p>"The affection of all the people from the first day, it was impressive and today is yet another example of the welcome. I'm very grateful."</p> <p>Suarez asked Messi about leading Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022. The U.S., Canada and Mexico will host the World Cup next summer, when Argentina will aim to defend its title.</p> <h2>Is Messi Thinking About Life After Soccer?</h2> <p>While he's not ready to reflect on his playing career, Messi acknowledged his mind is slowly shifting to what comes next. He mentioned his varied business interests during the conference.</p> <p>"At some point, it ends," Messi said. "I want to continue learning. For me, something else is coming, another world, and little by little I am getting prepared."</p> <p>But that's a conversation for another day. For now, Messi's content to keep doing what he does best on the pitch.</p> <p>"As a player, winning the World Cup, I think it's the best," Messi said. "After the World Cup, you can't ask for anything more."</p>