Famous soccer player Lionel Messi could not attend the Presidential Medal of Freedom award ceremony hosted by President Joe Biden on Saturday due to scheduling conflicts.

The Argentine World Cup champion was not present at the event where 18 distinguished recipients received the nation’s highest civilian award.

After being informed in December about his selection for the honor, Messi sent a letter to the White House explaining his inability to attend, as confirmed by his management team and Inter Miami to YSL News Sports.

Messi expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that he feels immensely honored and privileged, but highlighted that he had prior engagements that prevented his attendance. He also mentioned that he hopes to meet with President Biden sometime in the future.

Among the other laureates were Hillary Rodham Clinton, basketball icon Magic Johnson, designer Ralph Lauren, U2’s Bono, actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, along with renowned science advocate Bill Nye.

At 37 years old, Messi is the most accomplished player in professional soccer history, recently finishing his illustrious career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

Throughout his career, Messi has amassed 46 titles with both club and country, including four UEFA Champions League titles, two Copa America trophies, and one FIFA World Cup. He has won the Ballon d’Or eight times and has been recognized as FIFA’s best player on eight occasions.

In his first complete season last year, Messi was named MLS MVP, netting 20 goals and providing 16 assists in 19 matches, while leading his team to a record-setting 74-point season.

This month, Messi will kick off a busy 2025 with Inter Miami, which includes participating in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.

As for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Messi has not yet announced his plans regarding participation.

The White House honored Messi for his support of healthcare and education initiatives for children globally through the Leo Messi Foundation, and for his role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is regarded as the highest civilian award in the U.S., bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s prosperity, values, and security, as well as to world peace or other noteworthy societal or public efforts.