Lionel Messi Declines White House Invitation for Presidential Medal of Freedom

January 4, 2025

2 minutes read

Presidential Medal

World-renowned footballer Lionel Messi has reportedly declined an invitation to the White House to receive the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. The award, set to be conferred by U.S. President Joe Biden, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society, both domestically and internationally

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. This year’s honorees include prominent figures such as Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington, U2 frontman Bono, and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The inclusion of Messi on the list highlights his immense contributions to sports and his global influence as an athlete.

Despite the recognition, Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS), opted not to attend the White House ceremony. Reports suggest the Argentine forward cited scheduling conflicts and personal commitments as reasons for his decision. His absence from the event has sparked mixed reactions, with some fans expressing disappointment while others respect his choice.

Sources close to Messi indicated that while he is deeply honored by the award, he prefers to focus on his commitments with Inter Miami and his family. His decision also aligns with his reputation for prioritizing personal and professional obligations over public appearances.

Denzel Washington and Bono have expressed their gratitude for the honor, with Washington describing it as a “humbling moment” and Bono dedicating it to “all those fighting for justice and equality.”

Messi’s decision has not overshadowed the significance of the awards, which celebrate a diverse range of achievements in arts, politics, sports, and humanitarian efforts. The White House ceremony remains a platform for celebrating excellence and inspiring future generations.

As a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and FIFA World Cup champion, Messi’s legacy is already secure. His contributions to football have transcended the sport, making him a cultural icon worldwide. The Presidential Medal of Freedom adds to his accolades, symbolizing his impact beyond the pitch.

While Lionel Messi’s absence from the White House ceremony is notable, his recognition as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom underscores his status as a global sports legend. The award serves as a testament to his enduring influence, even as he chooses to remain grounded in his personal and professional commitments.

Share:
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Related Links

Dangote Refinery Petrol Price Drop Sparks Hope for Cheaper Fuel Nationwide

Nigerians may soon enjoy relief at fuel stations as the Dangote refinery petrol price drop ...

Former Boko Haram Members De-radicalised

Yobe State to Reintegrate 390 Ex-Boko Haram Members After De-Radicalisation Programme

The Yobe State Government has announced its readiness to reintegrate 390 former Boko Haram members ...

Muhammed Salah signs new contract

Mohamed Salah Extends Stay at Anfield

Mohamed Salah has signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool FC, extending his stay at ...

Bauchi State

Man Arrested for Sexual Assault of Minor Daughter in Bauchi

Police detain father accused of impregnating 17-year-old biological daughter. The Bauchi State Police Command has ...

Features

What Really Moves Bitcoin’s Price? A Comprehensive Guide to the Key Drivers of Volatility and Value

What Really Moves Bitcoin’s Price? A Comprehensive Guide to the Key Drivers of Volatility and Value

​Bitcoin, the pioneering cryptocurrency, has captivated the financial world with its innovative technology and notable ...

Guinea Sets September 2025 Date for Constitutional Referendum as Military Inches Toward Democratic Transition

Guinea Sets September 2025 Date for Constitutional Referendum as Military Inches Toward Democratic Transition

Guinea’s military-led government has officially announced that a national referendum on a new constitution will ...

Ivory Coast economic growth

Côte d’Ivoire’s Economic Boom Faces Political Test in 2025 Election

Ivory Coast’s Economic Success: A Model for West Africa Côte d’Ivoire has emerged as one ...

Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley: The Trailblazing African American Poet Who Defied Oppression

Phillis Wheatley: A Pioneer in Black Literature and Poetry Phillis Wheatley was a groundbreaking poet ...

Women Participation in Politics

International Women’s Day 2025: Advancing Rights, Equality, and Leadership for African Women

The 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” ...

Bromate

Bromate Use in Bread: The Hidden Health Risks

Potassium bromate, a banned additive in bread production, poses serious health risks, including cancer. Learn ...
Wema Bank

Wema Bank targets fraudulent activities as it suspends seven fintech partners

Tackling Fraud in Nigeria’s Fintech Sector: Wema Bank’s Bold Steps Nigeria’s financial technology (fintech) sector ...

The Rise of West African Startups: A Tech Revolution

The rise of West African startups is transforming the region’s tech ecosystem, with fintech and ...

Latest News

Today in History

April 26th is the day in 1986 that a nuclear reactor accident occurs at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in the Soviet Union (now Ukraine), creating the world's worst nuclear disaster.

Exchange Rate Per Dollar

AM Armenian Dram390.33
GH Ghana Cedi15.31
GM Gambian Dalasi72
GN Guinea Franc8,655
NG Nigerian Naira₦1,608.8
CF CFA Franc BEAC575.0775
26 Apr · CurrencyRate · USD
CurrencyRate.Today
Check: 26 Apr 2025 04:05 UTC
Latest change: 26 Apr 2025 04:00 UTC
API: CurrencyRate
Disclaimers. This plugin or website cannot guarantee the accuracy of the exchange rates displayed. You should confirm current rates before making any transactions that could be affected by changes in the exchange rates.
You can install this WP plugin on your website from the WordPress official website: Exchange Rates🚀

YOUR THOUGHTS

Let us know what you think

Contact the People’s Paper with feedback on stories and how we could make wapress.africa even better!

newsletter image

Stay up to date with the latest from West Africa Press

Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on WApress.

Subscribe Newsletter!

Be the first to receive our latest contents and more...

Need help?