Inter Miami star Lionel Messi was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in an extraordinary move by Joe Biden.
It is America's highest civilian honor, reserved only for 'individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace, or other important social, public or private endeavors.'
Messi moved to the United States last summer, when he joined Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer team co-owned by David Beckham.
The 37-year-old, Argentina captain and World Cup winner, has made just 39 appearances for Inter Miami. However, he led his country to Copa America glory on American soil last summer.
Messi is one of two athletes honored by the outgoing president, along with basketball legend 'Magic' Johnson.
Other sports stars who have received the Medal of Freedom in recent years include Tiger Woods, Megan Rapinoe and Olympic heroines Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky.
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden
Messi is one of two athletes honored, along with basketball legend 'Magic' Johnson.
Olympic star Simone Biles is among the other sports stars to have received the award in recent years.
This year's awards will be presented at the White House on Saturday, July 4. The 19 winners Also there are U2 frontman Bono, Hillary Clinton and Hollywood stars Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington.
Biden will posthumously honor Robert F Kennedy, the former US attorney general and senator assassinated in 1968.
“President Biden believes that great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair chance, and put decency above all else,” the White House said.
'These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. “They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
Messi has received the award for his success on the field and his charitable work off it, “supporting healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.” .
'Magic' Johnson is a five-time NBA champion and shared an iconic rivalry with Larry Bird.
He has also been recognized for his success with the Lakers and his work off the court.
“He is a successful businessman and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation,” the White House statement read.
In December 2022, the soccer legend led Argentina to victory in the World Cup in Qatar.
Olympic swimming star Katie Ledecky awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024
Messi caused a stir in football when he joined Inter Miami. He was soon joined by his former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez.
Messi led Miami to win the first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup, in 2023, but they were eliminated in the first round of the MLS playoffs last year.
During a glittering career with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina, the 37-year-old has racked up dozens of individual and team accolades.
He is an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and has won the World Cup, an Olympic gold medal and four Champions League titles.