Lionel Messi SNUBS Joe Biden! Why Inter Miami star didn't attend White House ceremony to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom while Denzel Washington, Bono and Hillary Clinton are given honours

Messi was expected at the White House to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom - America's highest civilian honour - but was conspicuous by his absence. The star-studded ceremony did feature such superstars as Denzel Washington, Bono, Magic Johnson and Hillary Clinton but Messi was nowhere to be seen.

The official reason for Messi's absence was a "scheduling error". However, there was also no-one sent in his place to collect his award which meant that his name was not even read out when the 2025 recipients of the medal were announced at the glitzy ceremony in Washington.

A statement released on his behalf read: "The White House informed FIFA, which informed the club at the end of December that Leo was to be awarded this recognition. Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he feels deeply honored and that it is a great privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he will not be able to attend. He thanked the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet with him in the near future."

Messi had been handed the honour not just for his incredible success on the pitch but also for his charity work. The White House said in a statement: "He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."

Messi is currently enjoying a break from football in the off-season and has been enjoying time with his family. The Argentine is due back in action next month for the new season as he heads into the final year of his current contract at Inter Miami.