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Tuesday, Jan 07, 2025
Outside the box.
Lionel Messi and Magic Johnson to Be Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
President Joe Biden of the United States recognizes two sports icons for their impact beyond the arena.
U.S. President Joe Biden is set to present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to two legendary sports figures, Lionel Messi and Earvin "Magic" Johnson, at the White House next Saturday.
This esteemed award, one of the highest civilian honors in the U.S., is bestowed upon individuals whose societal contributions are considered exceptional.
Acknowledging Global Impact
The White House revealed the medal will be conferred upon 19 people across various domains including politics, entertainment, sports, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and life sciences.
In a statement, the White House affirmed that the honorees have "committed themselves to enhancing the values, security, or prosperity of the United States, worldwide peace, or notable public and private initiatives."
Legacy of Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi, hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has claimed the Ballon d’Or eight times and the FIFA Player of the Year award on eight occasions.
Throughout his remarkable career, Messi has broken countless records and secured 45 team titles, including four UEFA Champions League trophies, two Copa América titles, and the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022.
After joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi continued to shine, earning the league MVP title in 2024 with 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 games.
Beyond the field, Messi is a fervent advocate for children’s health and education through the Leo Messi Foundation and is a UNICEF ambassador.
Impact of Magic Johnson
Earvin "Magic" Johnson, an iconic NBA point guard, led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships and is celebrated as one of basketball's all-time greats.
Following an HIV diagnosis in 1991, which led to his early retirement, Johnson became a leading voice in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He has been inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame twice, in 2002 and 2010, and was a crucial part of the "Dream Team" that won the gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Since retiring, Johnson has continued to make a substantial social impact as a businessman and co-owner of sports teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball.
A Respected Tradition
Past recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom include notable athletes such as Michael Jordan, Jerry West, Bob Cousy, Arthur Ashe, and Tiger Woods.
By honoring Messi and Johnson, Biden furthers the tradition of recognizing sports figures who have leveraged their platforms for social change and inspired global audiences.
The forthcoming ceremony will commend their outstanding contributions on and off the field, affirming their legacies as sports icons and champions of humanity.
This esteemed award, one of the highest civilian honors in the U.S., is bestowed upon individuals whose societal contributions are considered exceptional.
Acknowledging Global Impact
The White House revealed the medal will be conferred upon 19 people across various domains including politics, entertainment, sports, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and life sciences.
In a statement, the White House affirmed that the honorees have "committed themselves to enhancing the values, security, or prosperity of the United States, worldwide peace, or notable public and private initiatives."
Legacy of Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi, hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has claimed the Ballon d’Or eight times and the FIFA Player of the Year award on eight occasions.
Throughout his remarkable career, Messi has broken countless records and secured 45 team titles, including four UEFA Champions League trophies, two Copa América titles, and the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022.
After joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi continued to shine, earning the league MVP title in 2024 with 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 games.
Beyond the field, Messi is a fervent advocate for children’s health and education through the Leo Messi Foundation and is a UNICEF ambassador.
Impact of Magic Johnson
Earvin "Magic" Johnson, an iconic NBA point guard, led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships and is celebrated as one of basketball's all-time greats.
Following an HIV diagnosis in 1991, which led to his early retirement, Johnson became a leading voice in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He has been inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame twice, in 2002 and 2010, and was a crucial part of the "Dream Team" that won the gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Since retiring, Johnson has continued to make a substantial social impact as a businessman and co-owner of sports teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball.
A Respected Tradition
Past recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom include notable athletes such as Michael Jordan, Jerry West, Bob Cousy, Arthur Ashe, and Tiger Woods.
By honoring Messi and Johnson, Biden furthers the tradition of recognizing sports figures who have leveraged their platforms for social change and inspired global audiences.
The forthcoming ceremony will commend their outstanding contributions on and off the field, affirming their legacies as sports icons and champions of humanity.
