Football icon Lionel Messi was unable to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden on Saturday due to a schedule conflict.
Messi, the Argentine World Cup champion, was conspicuously absent from the ceremony in which 18 other awardees were awarded the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Messi dispatched a letter to the White House to notify officials of his inability to attend after discovering in December that he would receive the honor, as communicated by Messi’s management team and Inter Miami to USA TODAY Sports.
Messi expressed that he is profoundly honored and considers it a significant privilege to receive the recognition; nevertheless, he will be unable to attend owing to scheduling conflicts and prior obligations. Messi expressed gratitude for the gift and indicated his desire to meet Biden in the near future.
On Saturday, awardees included Hillary Rodham Clinton, basketball icon Magic Johnson, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, U2 lead vocalist Bono, actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, and renowned science educator Bill Nye.
At 37, Messi is the most decorated player in professional soccer history, concluding his illustrious career in the United States with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Messi has secured 46 titles for both club and country over his career, comprising four UEFA Champions Leagues, two Copa Americas, and one FIFA World Cup. He has won eight Ballon d’Or trophies and has been designated FIFA’s world’s best player on eight occasions.
Messi was awarded MLS MVP in his inaugural full season last year, netting 20 goals and providing 16 assists in 19 matches, while his team established a league record with a 74-point season.
Messi will commence a demanding 2025 with Inter Miami later this month, which entails participation in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
Messi has not yet announced his participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The White House acknowledged Messi for his advocacy of “healthcare and education initiatives for children globally through the Leo Messi Foundation and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is regarded as the preeminent civilian accolade in the nation. This is awarded to persons who have made outstanding contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, global peace, or other notable societal, public, or private efforts.
