Lionel Messi recently addressed his decision to skip a White House ceremony where he was slated to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The event, held on January 5, 2025, honored 19 prominent figures, including actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, as well as basketball legend Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson. At 38, the Argentine soccer icon stood out among the recipients, selected by outgoing President Joe Biden before the end of his term.
Messi’s Philanthropic Contributions Highlighted
The White House recognized Messi’s global influence beyond the pitch. Officials noted his support for children’s healthcare and education initiatives through the Leo Messi Foundation. He also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, amplifying his off-field impact.
Since joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in 2023, Messi has transformed the team. His performances led to victories in the Leagues Cup and the MLS Supporters’ Shield, solidifying his legacy in American soccer.
Messi’s Statement on the Invitation
Messi expressed his appreciation in a public statement. He said: “It’s a great honour to receive this recognition. I’m truly grateful for it. Unfortunately, I have a prior commitment and won’t be able to attend the ceremony at the White House on January 4. But I deeply appreciate this gesture.”
Notably, no representative attended on his behalf, so his name went unmentioned during the proceedings. Further details emerged about the process: The White House notified FIFA in late December, which then informed Inter Miami. Messi responded via the club, stating he felt deeply honored but cited scheduling conflicts and prior commitments as reasons for his absence. He added that he hoped for a future opportunity to meet the president.
Trump’s Views on Soccer Legends
Current President Donald Trump has stirred discussions in the soccer world amid preparations for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States. He recently expanded a travel ban affecting several nations involved in the tournament.
During the FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. last summer, Trump praised Brazilian icon Pele as soccer’s greatest of all time, overlooking Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Reflecting on his youth, Trump recalled: “Many years ago, when I was young, they brought a player named Pele to play and he played for a team called the Cosmos. And this place was packed – it was an earlier version of this stadium [the MetLife Stadium] and it was Pele. I don’t want to date myself but that was a long time ago and I was a young guy. I came to watch Pele and he was fantastic. So probably I’ll go old-fashioned – that’s like saying Babe Ruth – and say Pele was so great.”
