Lionel Messi receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom

Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi received the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday, with President Joe Biden hosting a star-studded ceremony at the White House.

Messi was among 19 honorees alongside LAFC co-owner Earvin “Magic” Johnson, U2 frontman Bono, Spanish-American chef José Andres, Hillary Clinton, and many others.

According to the White House, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor, awarded to individuals who have made “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other efforts important societal, public or private”.

“These 19 individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place,” the White House said. “They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”

In 2024, Messi led Inter Miami to their first-ever Supporters’ Shield title and the MLS single-season points record (74). He was named the Landon Donovan MLS MVP and a member of the MLS Best XI presented by Continental Tire.

The Argentine icon, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, and 2022 FIFA World Cup champion led MLS with 36 goals (20g/16a), the fifth-highest single-season total in MLS history. the league, despite only playing 19 matches (1,485 minutes) amid injuries and Copa América duty.

Messi and Inter Miami open their 2025 MLS campaign on February 22 against New York City FC (2:30 p.m. ET | MLS Season Pass).