Messi Joins the Ranks of Muhammad Ali and Michael Jordan After Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom

This recognition of Messi not only celebrates his brilliant sports career but also his influence as an ambassador of positive values.

Just two weeks before the end of his term, U.S. President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 prominent figures from various fields including politics, sports, entertainment, and civil rights, with Lionel Messi standing out among the honorees as the first male footballer to receive this prestigious award.

The White House explained that the recipients have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, global peace, or other significant social, public, or private efforts."

"As cultural icons, dignified statesmen, humanitarians, rock stars, and sports legends, you feed the hungry, you give hope to those who are suffering, and you craft the signs and sounds of our movements and our memories," Biden said during his speech at the ceremony.

Messi was recognized not only for his sporting achievements that have captivated millions worldwide but also for his social and charitable work through his foundation. Although the Argentine star, currently playing for Inter Miami, did not attend the ceremony at the White House, his inclusion on this list marks a special moment for both Argentina and football fans globally.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded by the president to individuals whose actions have made a significant impact on society, whether nationally or internationally. It was originally created as the Medal of Freedom by President Harry S. Truman in 1945 and renamed to its current name in 1963 by John F. Kennedy.

Unlike other awards, the process for awarding it does not follow a formal procedure. The president has full discretion to select the honorees, either by recommendation or on his own initiative, which often reflects his political or personal interests.

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On this occasion, alongside Messi, other honorees included former basketball player Magic Johnson, actor Denzel Washington, and designer Ralph Lauren, among others.