Messi receives US Medal of Freedom but misses White House ceremony
US President Joe Biden departs the Medal of Honor ceremony held at the White House to honor seven US Army soldiers on January 3, 2025 in Washington, DC.(AFP Photo)
Football legend Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday, but the Argentine star was notably absent from the ceremony at the White House due to a scheduling conflict.
Messi, who now plays for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, was honoured with the prestigious award, which is the highest civilian honour in the United States. He became the first Argentine and the first male football player to receive the accolade.
Despite the absence of Messi, 18 other recipients attended the event, including U2’s Bono, former basketball player Magic Johnson, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. However, Messi, the most decorated player in professional football history, sent a letter through his representatives explaining that prior commitments prevented his attendance.
“The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded this recognition,” Messi’s representatives said in a statement.
“Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honored 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.”
Messi’s omission from the ceremony did not diminish the significance of the award, which recognises individuals for their contributions to “the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours,” according to the White House.
The White House acknowledged Messi’s achievements in football and his philanthropic efforts. As the most decorated player in professional football, Messi has won 46 titles with his clubs and country, including four UEFA Champions League titles, two Copa América trophies, and one FIFA World Cup. He has also received eight Ballon d’Or awards, recognising him as the world’s best player.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Messi has been lauded for his charitable work. He supports healthcare and education programmes for children globally through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Messi’s recent success in Major League Soccer further cements his legacy. In his first full season with Inter Miami in 2023, he was named MLS MVP, scoring 20 goals and contributing 16 assists in just 19 matches. His club set a league record with a 74-point campaign.
Looking ahead, Messi will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, though he has not yet announced whether he will participate in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
