Billionaire George Soros, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Argentina captain Lionel Messi were among the 19 recipients of the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom by United States President Joe Biden on Saturday.
Bono, lead singer of rock band U2, basketballer Earvin “Magic” Johnson, fashion icon Anna Wintour, Academy Award winners, Denzel Washington and Michael J Fox, among others, also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony,
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to 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.
“These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House stated.
Those who received the award posthumously are former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter and former Michigan Gov. George W. Romney.
Messi, adjudged as the most decorated player in the history of professional football, was recognised for supporting healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Acknowledging the award, Messi’s club Inter Miami CF said, “Messi communicated to the White House ahead of the event that he is deeply honored, and it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition. However, due to a scheduling conflict and prior commitments, he was unable to attend. He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future,” his club, posted.
