Lionel Messi to be bestowed with highest US civilian award

The highest civilian honour in the US will be given to athletes, entertainers, politicians, and diplomats on Saturday when Joe Biden bestows the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients. According to a statement released by the White House, the honourees "are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the worldwide community."

Actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, basketball great Earvin Magic Johnson, singer and activist Bono, soccer star Lionel Messi, and longstanding fashion editor Anna Wintour are among those who will get honours from the departing US president.

After moving to the United States in the summer of 2023, the 37-year-old won the Leagues Cup's first edition with Inter Miami during his first season there.  After losing to Atlanta United in the playoffs, the David Beckham-co-owned team lost the MLS Cup 2024, but they did win the MLS Supporters Shield in his second season. The Argentine was awarded the season's Most Valuable Player in MLS 2024.

On Messi being conferred the prestigious honour, the White House said: "He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."

Lionel Messi's career over the years

As the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player approaches the last year of his contract at Inter Miami in 2025, he will be looking to put on even more spectacular displays. Messi appears to end his illustrious Major League Soccer career with Inter Miami. He is the most decorated player in professional soccer history and the Argentine World Cup champion.

The 37-year-old has won numerous team and individual awards during his illustrious career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and Argentina. He has won the World Cup, an Olympic gold medal, four Champions League crowns, and eight Ballon d'Or awards.