Messi Becomes the First Male Footballer to Win America's Highest Civilian Honor, the 'Presidential Medal of Freedom

New Delhi, January 6:Lionel Messi added another achievement to his list on January 4 when he was awarded the United States' highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The White House announced the names of the awardees on its official X handle.

This medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, global peace, or other important social, public, or private endeavors.

Messi became the first male footballer (soccer player) to receive this award and is the second player from this sport after Megan Rapinoe in 2022.

U.S. President Joe Biden presented the award, and Messi was one of the 19 recipients.

Messi's club, Inter Miami, issued a statement saying, "Before the ceremony, Messi told the White House that he was deeply honored and that receiving this recognition was a great privilege. However, due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments, he could not attend the event. He appreciated this gesture and expressed hope to meet in person in the near future."

In July 2023, Messi joined Inter Miami on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain and has scored 34 goals and provided 18 assists in 39 matches for Major League Soccer (MLS). He has already won the Leagues Cup and the MLS Supporters' Shield with the team.

During his time in the U.S., he won the Ballon d'Or and FIFA Men's Best Player award in 2023, and helped Argentina successfully defend the Copa América title last year. Despite missing 15 regular season matches with Miami, he was named MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP).