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HomeSportMagic Johnson and Lionel Messi to be Honored with Presidential Medal of...

Magic Johnson and Lionel Messi to be Honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Biden

 

 

Magic Johnson and Lionel Messi to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom from Biden


Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Lionel Messi are among 19 individuals who will be honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden at a ceremony on Saturday at the White House.

 

This medal is the highest civilian award in the United States, given to those who have made outstanding contributions to the country’s welfare, its values, or have furthered global peace, alongside other notable efforts in society or charity.

Magic Johnson, a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, has become a successful business figure and sports team owner, being part of ownership groups for teams like MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, NFL’s Washington Commanders, MLS’s Los Angeles FC, and NWSL’s Washington Spirit. He is also dedicated to philanthropy, particularly through his Magic Johnson Foundation, which aids underprivileged communities.

 

Lionel Messi, the Argentine who won the World Cup, is the most decorated soccer player in history and is currently concluding his illustrious career in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami. He is known for supporting healthcare and educational initiatives for children globally through his Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF.

 

Other notable recipients include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, U2’s Bono, actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, and science educator Bill Nye.

Additionally, Spanish chef José Andrés, entrepreneur and LGBTQ rights advocate Tim Gill, world-famous scientist and conservationist Jane Goodall, David Rubenstein of the Carlyle Group (new owner of the Baltimore Orioles), philanthropist George Soros, fashion icon Anna Wintour, and filmmaker George Stevens Jr. will also be honored.

 

Some individuals, including former Senator Robert F. Kennedy, ex-Secretary of Defense Ash Carter, civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, and former Governor of Michigan George Romney, will receive the medal posthumously.

According to a statement from the White House, “President Biden believes that great leaders keep faith, offer fair opportunities, and prioritize decency above all.”

 

“These nineteen Americans exemplify great leadership and have significantly improved the United States. They are exceptional individuals who have contributed immensely to their country and the world.”