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Although Lionel Messi, the hero of Argentine football, could not attend the White House event, he became the first men's football player to get the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States on Saturday. For those "who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavours," the highest civilian award is the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Lionel Messi did not attend the ceremony, but several well-known individuals did, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, basketball great Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and U2 singer and activist Bono. The Inter Miami player's officials stated that "scheduling conflicts and prior commitments" were the cause of his absence from the event.
Lionel Messi, the Argentine FIFA World Cup winner, was conspicuously absent from the ceremony, which generated online debate. His PR team then stated that he was unable to attend because of scheduling conflicts and prior commitments. However, after learning in December that he would be getting the accolade from President Joe Biden, Messi wrote to the White House to express his gratitude, according to US Express.
Lionel Messi enjoying free time with family
“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,” the representatives said via a statement.
Although his itinerary and duties were not made public, it was claimed that Messi is presently taking a well-earned vacation with his family following a hectic time. Antonela Roccuzzo, his wife, recently posted pictures of their New Year's festivities in a tranquil poolside spot on Instagram. As he enters the final year of his current deal at Inter Miami, the Argentine is expected to return to action next month for the upcoming season.