Washington: Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer legend, was honoured with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, by President Joe Biden on Saturday. However, Messi did not attend the White House ceremony to receive the award.
Messi, a World Cup champion and an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, now plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). He is the first Argentine to be given this honor and the first male soccer player to receive it.
Also Read
While other notable recipients such as U2's Bono, former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton were present at the ceremony, Messi was absent. His representatives clarified the situation in a statement issued by Inter Miami, explaining that Messi had a prior commitment.
“The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded with this recognition,” the statement explained. “Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honoured and that it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he was going to be unable to attend. He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future.”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors," according to the White House.
In the official statement, the White House highlighted Messi’s remarkable achievements, calling him “the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer.” Messi is also recognised for his humanitarian work, including supporting healthcare and education programs for children worldwide through the Leo Messi Foundation. He also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
In 2022, President Biden awarded the Medal of Freedom to USA women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe, making her the first soccer player to receive this distinguished honor.
Agency
Published: 05 Jan 2025, 07:36 am IST
Related Topics
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.