- Lionel Messi is set to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden, honoring his contributions beyond sports, including his work with the Lionel Messi Foundation and his efforts as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
He joins a distinguished group of 19 individuals recognized for their remarkable contributions to society, both nationally and globally.
Announcing the honorees, President Biden said, “They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made significant achievements in their fields or demonstrated exemplary service to humanity.
Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, is celebrated not only for his unparalleled achievements on the soccer field but also for his philanthropic efforts.
Through the Leo Messi Foundation, he has supported education, healthcare, and opportunities for disadvantaged children worldwide.
The list of honorees spans various fields, including arts, science, public service, and social justice.
Other recipients include Hillary Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State; Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and conservationist; and Michael J. Fox, the actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease research.