Soccer
Lionel Messi awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom but misses ceremony
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Lionel Messi has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by United States President Joe Biden, but the Argentina star was notably absent from Saturday's ceremony.
The Inter Miami forward, one of the most celebrated and decorated footballers of all-time, missed the presentation of the 2025 class owing to a prior commitment.
Messi, who made his name as a star at Barcelona and Argentina, winning the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup with the latter, is the first men's soccer player to be honored.
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He was recognised for his work with healthcare and education programs around the globe throigh the Leo Messi Foundation and his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
USWNT forward Megan Rapinoe was previously recognised by the Biden administration as the first footballer overall to be bestowed with the honour, as part of the 2022 class.
Other names awarded with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States, this year included U2 frontman Bono and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Messi, whose Miami side secured a first Supporters' Shield in 2024, were eliminated in a shock three-game upset against Atlanta United in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Los Angeles Galaxy instead won a record-extending sixth triumph in the event, defeating the New York Red Bulls in a 2-1 triumph at Dignity Health Sports Park.
The forward's honour comes less than a week after former England manager Gareth Southgate was honoured in the United Kingdom as part of the 2025 New Year Honours.
The ex-Three Lions boss, who stood down following a second successive European Championship final, was knighted and becomes Sir Gareth Southgate.
He is the fourth former England supremo to be bestowed with the honour, after Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.
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