The MLS Disciplinary Committee said Messi was sanctioned for violating the league’s policy on contact involving an opponent’s face, head or neck.
Inter Miami defender Ian Fray was also fined for a similar offence.
The incident happened late in stoppage time when Messi approached Sullivan near the centre circle. After a brief exchange, the Argentine appeared to strike Sullivan on the back of the neck, sparking a tense confrontation between the two players.
Referee Filip Dujic, who did not see the incident, stepped in to separate them but did not issue any cards.
The match ended in further drama as Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan and Miami midfielder Yannick Bright were sent off following a separate stoppage-time scuffle in the Inter Miami penalty area.
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