2024 MLS Golden Boot race: Lionel Messi leads the pack with nine goals

The 2024 Major League Soccer season is up and running along with the race for this year's Golden Boot winner.

With MLS sides known for having much more quality on the attacking side of the pitch, plenty of forwards and midfielders will rack up goals upon goals during the 34-game regular season.

Last season's Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga took home the award with 20 goals scored during regular-season action, but he faces stiff competition this time around.

Atlanta United's Giorgos Giakoumakis gave Bouanga a run for his money as he tallied 17 goals to win the Newcomer of the Year award in 2023 alongside reigning MVP Lucho Acosta. Cucho Hernandez bagged 16 goals to propel Columbus Crew to their third MLS Cup in December, and he'll look to do more of the same in the new season to lift the coveted title once more.

Check back here throughout the 2024 MLS campaign for the full Golden Boot standings:

2024 Golden Boot standings

Players with the same number of goals scored are separated by least minutes played.