Messi explains why he skipped meeting Biden at medal ceremony

Lionel Messi explains missing the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony due to schedule.

Listen to article

Lionel Messi has explained why he was unable to attend the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony, during which he was honored with the nation's highest civilian award.

The ceremony, held on Saturday, saw 19 recipients, including notable figures such as Hillary Clinton, Denzel Washington, Bono, and Magic Johnson, accept the prestigious medal in person from President Joe Biden.

Messi, however, was absent from the event, leading to speculation about his whereabouts. In a statement, his public relations team clarified that the soccer star could not attend due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments. “The White House informed FIFA, who informed the Club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded with this recognition.

Leo, through the Club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honored and that it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he was going to be unable to attend,” the statement read. Messi also expressed his gratitude for the honor, saying, “He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future.”

Though his reasons for missing the ceremony remain unclear, Messi is believed to be spending time with his family, including his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three children.

Despite the explanation, some fans criticized Messi’s absence, calling it disrespectful. One user on X wrote, “I love Messi but can't defend that. Very disrespectful,” while another commented, “What a disrespect!! I was watching on PBS but didn’t see him.” A third fan said, “Man ghosted the president of the United States of America."

Messi’s absence did not overshadow his achievements. The 37-year-old is widely regarded as the most decorated player in soccer history, with numerous titles including four UEFA Champions Leagues, two Copa Americas, and a FIFA World Cup.

In his first season with Inter Miami, he was named MLS MVP after scoring 20 goals and providing 16 assists in 19 matches. Off the field, Messi has supported various causes, including healthcare and education for children, through his Leo Messi Foundation and as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambasasdor.