The beautiful game is reaching new heights in Denver, and we're not just talking about the altitude. Three weeks after a record-breaking 63,000 fans packed Mile High Stadium for the NWSL debut of the Denver Summit, the city's soccer passion soared even higher.

On Saturday, a staggering crowd of 75,824 filled the home of the Denver Broncos to watch the Colorado Rapids host Inter Miami. This monumental turnout marks the second-largest attendance in Major League Soccer history, continuing a recent trend that has seen crowds exceed 70,000 three times in just the last two months.

The all-time MLS record of 82,110, set at the Rose Bowl in 2021 for an LA derby, remains intact, but Saturday's event came remarkably close. The Rapids nearly sold out the football stadium, which has a capacity of 76,125 for Broncos games, showcasing soccer's incredible drawing power.

A major factor in this surge is the presence of global icon Lionel Messi. Since his arrival, Inter Miami has become a must-see attraction, featuring in four of the top ten most-attended matches in league history as the visiting team. His influence is undeniable, turning every away game into a major event.

This milestone is more than just a single-game spectacle; it's a powerful statement about the growth of soccer in the United States. While other sports look to expand globally, the world's game is making profound and undeniable progress right here on American soil, captivating fans in historic numbers and proving its place at the forefront of the sports landscape.