At the SOCCEREX Miami conference on Tuesday, MLS commissioner Don Garber expressed his astonishment and delight at the outstanding streaming numbers achieved through their Apple TV deal. The league’s partnership with Apple TV has undeniably contributed to the exponential growth of MLS’s streaming viewership.
One of the key factors behind this unprecedented success was the midseason signing of the legendary Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi. His arrival at Inter Miami sparked a wave of excitement and anticipation among soccer fans worldwide. With Messi’s inclusion, MLS not only gained a world-class player but also an international spotlight, making it a truly global league.
Commissioner Garber was candidly surprised and thrilled with the streaming numbers, stating, “We had more than a million viewers for the biggest games on MLS Season Pass. Nobody expected such an overwhelming response.” These remarkable figures far surpassed even the average viewership of NHL games in the USA, highlighting the tremendous reach and popularity of MLS.
While the precise streaming figures have not been publicly disclosed, it is evident that MLS’s streaming success can be largely attributed to the addition of Lionel Messi, the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner. His presence and remarkable performances have undoubtedly captivated fans around the world, driving engagement and expanding the league’s global appeal.
In another exciting development, the 2023 MLS playoffs are set to resume following the conclusion of the FIFA international break. This year, MLS has implemented a new playoff format with the Conference semifinals adopting a thrilling single-game knockout structure. Starting on November 25, the matches will be intensively competitive, with the potential for extra-time and penalty shootouts, adding an additional layer of drama and excitement for fans.
Looking ahead to the Western Conference matchups, Sporting Kansas City will take on the Houston Dynamo, while the Seattle Sounders will face off against LAFC. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, spectators can anticipate thrilling encounters between FC Cincinnati and the Philadelphia Union, as well as a clash between Orlando City and the Columbus Crew. These playoffs promise to showcase the best of MLS talent and provide a captivating spectacle for soccer enthusiasts worldwide.
As MLS continues to embrace new technologies and expand its reach, the league’s streaming success serves as a testament to its growing prominence on the global stage. With the addition of iconic players like Lionel Messi and the implementation of exciting playoff formats, MLS is forging a path of innovation and captivating fans worldwide. The future looks incredibly bright for Major League Soccer, and the streaming numbers serve as evidence of its soaring popularity in the ever-evolving landscape of soccer.
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