Lionel Messi, Argentina’s national football team captain, received the US Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

• Messi is the first male footballer to be honored with this prestigious award.
• The award was presented by US President Joe Biden.
• The US Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes individuals for contributions to national interest, world peace, or significant public/private endeavors.
• Messi was recognized for his humanitarian efforts through the Leo Messi Foundation and his work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
• The medal is awarded for outstanding contributions in fields like national security, cultural impact, and global peace, similar to India’s Bharat Ratna.