Lionel Messi added to his extensive list of awards a recognition that transcends the limits of sport. The Rosario soccer player was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor of the United States, becoming the first Argentine and the first male soccer player to receive this prestigious recognition. The distinction was awarded by President Joe Biden in a ceremony that took place at the White House, in which 18 other personalities from various fields were also recognized.
The White House reported that Messi was chosen for his outstanding sporting career, his philanthropic commitment through the Leo Messi Foundation and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. The Argentine’s foundation has been noted for its support of children’s health and education programs around the world, an effort that complements his impact as one of the most influential figures in sports.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, created in 1963 by then-President John F. Kennedy, is intended to honor individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to United States national security, world peace, or significant cultural and social initiatives. Among its most illustrious recipients are figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Angela Merkel and Steven Spielberg. In the sports field, legends such as Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan and Simone Biles have previously been recognized. Messi will be the first male soccer player to join this select list, although Megan Rapinoe, former captain of the United States women’s soccer team, had already received the medal in 2022.
According to the statement issued by the White House, President Biden highlighted that the awardees “They are great leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world. They keep the faith, give everyone a fair chance and put decency before everything else.” In addition to Messi, the list of honorees includes chef José Andrés, recognized for his humanitarian work in disaster zones; Bono, leader of U2 and activist against AIDS; Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and former presidential candidate; Michael J. Fox, actor and advocate for Parkinson’s research; and the legendary basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who in addition to his sports career is known for his activism on HIV issues and philanthropy.
For Messi, this recognition marks a new milestone in a career that has already seen him rise as one of the best footballers of all time. World champion with the Argentine national team in 2022, winner of four Champions Leagues and more than 40 titles between Barcelona, PSG and Inter Miami, the Argentine has also been awarded seven Ballon d’Ors, a historical record. However, the Presidential Medal of Freedom places his legacy in a different sphere, recognizing him not only for his achievements on the playing field, but also for his contributions to humanitarian and social causes.
“These nineteen people have made America a better place and have inspired the world with their leadership,” the president stressed.
The Leo Messi Foundation, created in 2007, has financed educational and health infrastructure projects in countries such as Argentina, Spain, Syria and Bangladesh. One of his most recent achievements was the inauguration of a pediatric oncology center in Rosario, his hometown, a project that seeks to improve access to treatments for children with cancer. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2010, Messi has also participated in campaigns to promote inclusion, access to education and the rights of children in vulnerable situations.
Messi’s inclusion in a list that also recognizes personalities such as primatologist Jane Goodall, designer Ralph Lauren, fashion editor Anna Wintour and actor Denzel Washington, reflects the broad scope of this medal. With this distinction, the For money reaffirms its status as a global icon, transcending the limits of sport and reaffirming itself as a model of inspiration and commitment.
