Lionel Messi awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom as Joe Biden honors Inter Miami star in shock move

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been 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 significant societal, public or private endeavors.’

Messi moved to the US last summer, when he joined Inter Miami – the Major League Soccer team co-owned by David Beckham.

The 37-year-old, the captain of Argentina and a World Cup winner, has played just 39 games for Inter Miami. He did, however, lead his country to Copa America glory on American soil last summer.

Messi is one of two athletes being honored by the outgoing president, alongside basketball legend ‘Magic’ Johnson.

Other sports stars to have received the Medal of Freedom in recent years include Tiger Woods, Megan Rapinoe and Olympic heroes Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky.

This year’s awards will be presented at the White House on Saturday, July 4. The 19 recipients also include 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 who was assassinated in 1968.

‘President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, 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 charity work off it, ‘supporting healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.’

‘Magic’ Johnson is a five-time NBA champion who shared an iconic rivalry with Larry Bird. 

He has also been recognized for his success with the Lakers – and his work away from the court.

‘He is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation,’ read the White House statement.

Messi sent shockwaves around soccer when he joined Inter Miami. He was soon joined by former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.

Messi led Miami to a first ever trophy, Leagues Cup, in 2023 but they were knocked out 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 collected dozens of team and individual accolades. 

He is an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner who has won the World Cup, an Olympic gold medal as well as four Champions League titles.