President Joe Biden salutes Lionel Messi: Argentina & Inter Miami superstar to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom - the USA's highest civilian honor

Messi, along with NBA legend Magic Johnson and 17 other people will receive the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom from the USA President Joe Biden, the White House confirmed on Saturday. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the country's highest civilian honor.

The official statement from the White House read: "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 being conferred the prestigious honour, 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 to the US in the summer of 2023 and in his maiden campaign in the country, he won the inaugural edition of the Leagues Cup with the Herons. In his second season, the David Beckham co-owned club bagged the MLS Supporters Shield but missed out on winning the MLS Cup 2024 after they lost to Atlanta United in the playoffs. In MLS 2024, the Argentine was named the Most Valuable Player of the season.

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.