Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, NBA star Magic Johnson among 19 to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

Lionel Messi and Earvin "Magic" Johnson will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom during a ceremony Saturday at the White House. President Joe Biden will bestow the honor to 19 of the most famous names in politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy and science.

The White House released this statement: "President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. 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."

On Messi, the White House said: "He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."

The 37-year-old moved Messi to the U.S. in the summer of 2023 and in his first season, he won the inaugural edition of the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami. In his second season, the David Beckham co-owned club claimed the MLS Supporters Shield but missed out on winning the MLS Cup 2024 after they lost to Atlanta United in the playoffs.

In 2024, Messi was named MLS Most Valuable Player.

Messi has set numerous individual records with eight Ballon d'Or awards and eight times being named FIFA's world's best player. He is the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer, having won 45 team trophies, including four UEFA Champions Leagues, two Copa Americas and one FIFA World Cup.

Often regarded as the greatest point guard of all time, Johnson, 65, was a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers  He was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

Since his retirement, Johnson has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention. His philanthropic work also supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation.

Johnson is also part of ownership groups for the Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, Los Angeles FC in MLS and the NWSL's Washington Spirit.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star will be hoping to deliver more magical performances in 2025 as he enters the final year of his contract at Inter Miami.