Joe Biden honors Messi with the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom

Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, by President Joe Biden on Saturday. However, the Argentine World Cup champion and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner did not attend the White House ceremony. 

Currently playing for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami, Messi is the first Argentine and the first male soccer player to receive this prestigious award. 

While other honorees, including U2's Bono, former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, attended the event, Messi's absence was attributed to prior commitments. 

In a statement issued through Inter Miami, Messi’s representatives explained, “The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December, that Leo would be receiving this honor. Through the club, Leo expressed his gratitude and profound privilege in receiving this recognition but noted scheduling conflicts prevented him from attending.” Messi also conveyed his hope to meet with officials in the future. 

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other important societal or public endeavors. 

The White House highlighted Messi's achievements as the most decorated player in professional soccer history, his work supporting healthcare and education programs for children through the Leo Messi Foundation, and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. 

Previously, U.S. women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe became the first soccer player to receive the award in 2022, presented by Biden.