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Lionel Messi breaks scoring record against Austria, and other World Cup highlights, in photos

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Lionel Messi breaks scoring record against Austria, and other World Cup highlights, in photos
Sport

Sport

Lionel Messi breaks scoring record against Austria, and other World Cup highlights, in photos

2026-06-23 08:37 Last Updated At:08:41

Lionel Messi and defending champion Argentina played Austria on Monday in Arlington, Texas, where Messi broke the record for most World Cup goals in history. Day 12 at the World Cup will also see France play Iraq in Philadelphia, Norway versus Senegal in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and Jordan against Algeria in Santa Clara, California.

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.

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France's Kylian Mbappe (10) runs with the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) runs with the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring their second goal as Iraq's Zaid Tahseen (4) reacts during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring their second goal as Iraq's Zaid Tahseen (4) reacts during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Iraq's Ibrahim Bayesh, left, and France's Ousmane Dembele vie for the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Ibrahim Bayesh, left, and France's Ousmane Dembele vie for the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali (3) kicks the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Iraq's Hussein Ali (3) kicks the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) reacts after scoring his team's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) reacts after scoring his team's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Spectators react in the rain during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Spectators react in the rain during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

A photographer shelters from the rain as play is suspended during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

A photographer shelters from the rain as play is suspended during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Fans watch the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq under the rain in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Fans watch the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq under the rain in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali, bottom, challenges France's Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali, bottom, challenges France's Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

France's Manu Kone (6) reacts as he is tackled by Iraq's Zidane Iqbal (14) during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Manu Kone (6) reacts as he is tackled by Iraq's Zidane Iqbal (14) during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Argentina's Lionel Messi leaves the field after the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi leaves the field after the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi falls during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi falls during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina players and fans celebrate after Lionel Messi scored their second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina players and fans celebrate after Lionel Messi scored their second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Michael Gregoritsch (11) and Argentina's Valentin Barco battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Michael Gregoritsch (11) and Argentina's Valentin Barco battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Austria's David Alaba battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Austria's David Alaba battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Konrad Laimer reacts to a referee decision during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Konrad Laimer reacts to a referee decision during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Marcel Sabitzer right, fights for the ball with Argentina's Alexis Mac Allister during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Marcel Sabitzer right, fights for the ball with Argentina's Alexis Mac Allister during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Colombian singer Shakira attends the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Colombian singer Shakira attends the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi views the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi views the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, is congratulated after scoring his side's 2nd goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, is congratulated after scoring his side's 2nd goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with Leandro Paredes after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with Leandro Paredes after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

A fan wearing a Mexican charro hat arrives to the stadium for the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

A fan wearing a Mexican charro hat arrives to the stadium for the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Austria's Xaver Schlager (4), Stefan Posch (not seen) and Argentina's Lautaro Martinez fall during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Xaver Schlager (4), Stefan Posch (not seen) and Argentina's Lautaro Martinez fall during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) and Rodrigo De Paul enter the field for warm up prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) and Rodrigo De Paul enter the field for warm up prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lautaro Martinez takes an overhead kick next to Austria's Kevin Danso during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lautaro Martinez takes an overhead kick next to Austria's Kevin Danso during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a Lionel Messi big head on the stands before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a Lionel Messi big head on the stands before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

The national flags are displayed before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

The national flags are displayed before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) celebrates scoring his side's first goal against Austria with teammates during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) celebrates scoring his side's first goal against Austria with teammates during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

An Argentina fan wears a mask of Argentina's Lionel Messi outside the stadium before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a mask of Argentina's Lionel Messi outside the stadium before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Fans of Argentina cheer prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Fans of Argentina cheer prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, right, celebrates scoring his side's opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, right, celebrates scoring his side's opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) runs with the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) runs with the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring their second goal as Iraq's Zaid Tahseen (4) reacts during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring their second goal as Iraq's Zaid Tahseen (4) reacts during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Iraq's Ibrahim Bayesh, left, and France's Ousmane Dembele vie for the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Ibrahim Bayesh, left, and France's Ousmane Dembele vie for the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali (3) kicks the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Iraq's Hussein Ali (3) kicks the ball during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Ousmane Dembele (7) congratulates teammate Kylian Mbappe (10) after he scored their second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) reacts after scoring his team's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) reacts after scoring his team's second goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Spectators react in the rain during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Spectators react in the rain during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

A photographer shelters from the rain as play is suspended during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

A photographer shelters from the rain as play is suspended during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Fans watch the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq under the rain in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Fans watch the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq under the rain in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali, bottom, challenges France's Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Iraq's Hussein Ali, bottom, challenges France's Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

France's Manu Kone (6) reacts as he is tackled by Iraq's Zidane Iqbal (14) during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Manu Kone (6) reacts as he is tackled by Iraq's Zidane Iqbal (14) during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) scores his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

France's Kylian Mbappe (10) celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)

Argentina's Lionel Messi leaves the field after the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi leaves the field after the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi falls during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi falls during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina players and fans celebrate after Lionel Messi scored their second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina players and fans celebrate after Lionel Messi scored their second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, scores his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Michael Gregoritsch (11) and Argentina's Valentin Barco battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Michael Gregoritsch (11) and Argentina's Valentin Barco battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Austria's David Alaba battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, and Austria's David Alaba battle for the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Konrad Laimer reacts to a referee decision during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Konrad Laimer reacts to a referee decision during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Marcel Sabitzer right, fights for the ball with Argentina's Alexis Mac Allister during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria's Marcel Sabitzer right, fights for the ball with Argentina's Alexis Mac Allister during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Colombian singer Shakira attends the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Colombian singer Shakira attends the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi views the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi views the ball during the World Cup Group J soccer match against Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, is congratulated after scoring his side's 2nd goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, is congratulated after scoring his side's 2nd goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with Leandro Paredes after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates with Leandro Paredes after scoring his side's second goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

A fan wearing a Mexican charro hat arrives to the stadium for the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

A fan wearing a Mexican charro hat arrives to the stadium for the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Austria's Xaver Schlager (4), Stefan Posch (not seen) and Argentina's Lautaro Martinez fall during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria's Xaver Schlager (4), Stefan Posch (not seen) and Argentina's Lautaro Martinez fall during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) and Rodrigo De Paul enter the field for warm up prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) and Rodrigo De Paul enter the field for warm up prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lautaro Martinez takes an overhead kick next to Austria's Kevin Danso during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lautaro Martinez takes an overhead kick next to Austria's Kevin Danso during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a Lionel Messi big head on the stands before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a Lionel Messi big head on the stands before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, center, celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

The national flags are displayed before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

The national flags are displayed before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) celebrates scoring his side's first goal against Austria with teammates during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) celebrates scoring his side's first goal against Austria with teammates during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

An Argentina fan wears a mask of Argentina's Lionel Messi outside the stadium before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

An Argentina fan wears a mask of Argentina's Lionel Messi outside the stadium before the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

Fans of Argentina cheer prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Fans of Argentina cheer prior to the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager falls after failing to stop Argentina's Lionel Messi (10) from scoring his side's first goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, right, celebrates scoring his side's opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

Argentina's Lionel Messi, right, celebrates scoring his side's opening goal during the World Cup Group J soccer match between Argentina and Austria in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Monday, June 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

NEW YORK (AP) — No music executive has ever been so powerful as to become synonymous with the whole of the music industry itself. But if anyone came close, it was Clive Davis.

The record company lawyer who became one of the music industry’s most powerful figures, launching or resurrecting the careers of such superstars as Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana and Alicia Keys, has died, it was announced Monday. He was 94.

The greatest way to celebrate the “man with the golden ears,” as he was colloquially known, is to listen to the musicians and songs he was instrumental in turning into career artists and timeless hits, from starting his career at Columbia Records in the 1960s to today.

Read on below and then listen to all 10 songs on The Associated Press' Spotify playlist here.

The story is the stuff of music industry legend. Apparently, Davis and producer David Foster fought bitterly over the arrangement for Whitney Houston’s all-time hit, a cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” Davis wanted the final version of the song to feature its iconic 40-second a cappella intro, an experiment suggested by Houston's “Bodyguard” co-star Kevin Costner. Foster did not. Davis won out in the end.

It was Davis who conceived of Santana's 1999 album, “Supernatural,” which paired guitar virtuoso Carlos Santana with some of the day’s hottest talents. The record won eight Grammys and gave Santana more success than he had ever enjoyed in his decades-long career. At its center is “Smooth” with Matchbox Twenty singer Rob Thomas, a track Santana originally hated but Davis convinced him otherwise — as he was wont to do.

Aretha Franklin had long been a star before joining Davis at Arista Records later in her career. But by the early '80s, as her commercial success had faded amid changing musical tastes, he helped revitalize her career. “Freeway of Love,” an R&B-pop track from her 1985 record “Who’s Zoomin' Who?” brought her back to the top of conversation. Their partnership was one for the books; it's no wonder she once referred to him as “the greatest record man of all time.”

As the story goes, attending the Monterey International Pop Festival in 1967 was pivotal for a young Davis, who became so enamored with the performances that they transformed his approach to running Columbia Records. He'd just been named president of the label and used his power to bring a counterculture spirit to a company that had resisted rock ’n’ roll. But of the lineup, no act resonated with Davis quite like Big Brother, and in particular, the soulful singer Janis Joplin. Their partnership began then, when he took “Piece of My Heart” and suggested adding a chorus and shortening its run time and instrumentals — turning it into a No. 1 hit.

Davis was an early adopter of Springsteen, as he was of many artists across his career. He gave the young singer-songwriter from New Jersey a chance in his early 20s and inspired him to write the everlasting single, “Blinded by the Light,” from his 1973 debut album, “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.” It would sound like the stuff of mythology if it weren’t true.

It's not so much that Davis had a role in the debut single from the nascent, big-voiced Alicia Keys — but he was one of her first and most ardent supporters. He signed her to his J Records and helped make her the star she is today. He saw her greatness immediately and at the very beginning.

Over 50 years ago, Davis threw a party to celebrate the release of Arista Records’ first Grammy record of the year nominee: Barry Manilow’s “Mandy.” Stevie Wonder showed up. So did John Denver and Elton John. What was a one-off celebration morphed into one of the best-known and most exclusive parties of the year: the annual pre-Grammy fundraising event hosted by Davis, including four months before his death. But his fabulous gala was not the only reason this song is included here: It is evidence of Davis’ ability to identify a hit and pair it with the right artist. He gave “Mandy” to Manilow, and the rest is history.

Billy Joel shared a tribute to Davis on his Instagram account on Monday, writing, “Clive Davis convinced me to sign with Columbia Records many years ago. He recognized the talent of great musicians and understood the power of contemporary music.” The album that he released immediately after said signing? “Piano Man.” Not bad work, Davis.

Like every major music exec, Davis' aim wasn't 100% all the time — though he was a lot more accurate than most. His Arista label had huge success with country superstars Brooks & Dunn, R&B group TLC, singer-songwriter and producer Babyface, Houston, Franklin and more. He also initially knocked it out of the park with Milli Vanilli, the male pop duo, which had a huge hit with “Blame It On the Rain.” The pair would soon become the embarrassment of the industry when, after winning a Grammy the next year, it was revealed that they weren’t actually singing their songs.

Davis and Kelly Clarkson had a complicated relationship. Davis found “Since U Been Gone,” one of the biggest songs of her career, for Clarkson but wrote in his memoir that she didn’t want to record it originally. Clarkson says it is because she was told she would cowrite the song, but by the time she got to Sweden to work with producers and songwriters Max Martin and Dr. Luke, it had already been completed. It’s both yet another example of Davis’ keen ear — and his fallibility.

FILE - Music producer Clive Davis attends the special screening of "Western Stars" at Metrograph in New York on Oct. 16, 2019. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Music producer Clive Davis attends the special screening of "Western Stars" at Metrograph in New York on Oct. 16, 2019. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Record mogul Clive Davis is pictured in his New York office, Sept. 10, 1980. (AP Photo/Marty Reichenthal, File)

FILE - Record mogul Clive Davis is pictured in his New York office, Sept. 10, 1980. (AP Photo/Marty Reichenthal, File)

FILE - Barry Manilow, left, and Clive Davis attend Clive Davis' 90th birthday celebration in New York on April 6, 2022. (Photo by Greg Allen/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Barry Manilow, left, and Clive Davis attend Clive Davis' 90th birthday celebration in New York on April 6, 2022. (Photo by Greg Allen/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Alicia Keys, left, and Clive Davis attend the "Hell's Kitchen" Broadway musical opening night performance in New York on April 20, 2024. (Photo by CJ Rivera/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Alicia Keys, left, and Clive Davis attend the "Hell's Kitchen" Broadway musical opening night performance in New York on April 20, 2024. (Photo by CJ Rivera/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Aretha Franklin, left, and Clive Davis, attend Keep a Child Alive's 2014 Black Ball in New York on Oct. 30, 2014. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Aretha Franklin, left, and Clive Davis, attend Keep a Child Alive's 2014 Black Ball in New York on Oct. 30, 2014. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File)

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