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Lionel Messi is one of the most celebrated athletes of all time, renowned for his extraordinary skills, achievements, and influence in football (soccer).
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The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) announced the winners of its annual awards.

Soccer star Lionel Messi was unable to accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden on Saturday due to a scheduling issue.

Messi, the Argentine World Cup champion, was noticeably absent during the ceremony where 18 other recipients received the highest civilian honor in the United States.

Lionel Messi is the only other footballer on the rich list, with reports suggesting he can charge advertisers $1.16m - around £840k - for an Insta post.
Lionel Messi

Messi said he is deeply honored and it is a profound privilege to receive the recognition, but would be unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments. Messi appreciated the gesture and noted he hopes to have the opportunity to meet Biden in the near future.

Lionel Messi, often regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, is having a phenomenal 2025. From being awarded a prestigious honor by U.S. President Joe Biden to experiencing a career resurgence with Inter Miami, Messi continues to capture hearts globally. However, what stands out this year is his extraordinary popularity in the United States, where he has become nothing short of a cultural phenomenon.

Messi and Inter Miami have a packed schedule with numerous competitions, making 2025 a challenging yet exciting year for the team and their fans.
Messi and Inter Miami have a packed schedule with numerous competitions, making 2025 a challenging yet exciting year for the team and their fans.

Messi Awarded a Presidential Honor

One of the most notable moments of 2025 was when Lionel Messi received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden. The award, traditionally given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the United States or the world, was a testament to Messi’s influence beyond the football pitch.

Why Messi?

While Messi’s roots are firmly planted in Argentina, his impact in the U.S. has grown exponentially since joining Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami in 2023. His ability to elevate the profile of soccer in America, attract international attention to the MLS, and inspire a new generation of athletes resonated with the Biden administration.

The ceremony at the White House was attended by high-profile figures from sports, politics, and entertainment. Messi, known for his humility, expressed deep gratitude, saying, “This honor is not just for me but for everyone who loves the beautiful game and believes in its power to unite people.”

2025: A Career Renaissance

After a challenging stint with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi’s move to Inter Miami marked a turning point. His first season in the MLS was spectacular, helping Inter Miami win their first-ever Leagues Cup and significantly raising the league's profile.

In 2025, Messi’s form has been nothing short of extraordinary:

  • Goals Galore: Messi has already scored 25 goals this season, breaking multiple MLS records.
  • Team Leader: As captain, he has inspired Inter Miami to become a serious contender for the MLS Cup.
  • Mentor Role: Messi has taken young American players under his wing, fostering talent and sharing his unparalleled experience.

Beyond his performance on the pitch, Messi has contributed to the growth of soccer in the U.S. His matches are sell-outs, with fans willing to pay premium prices just to catch a glimpse of him.

The American Love Affair with Messi

For decades, soccer has struggled to gain the same level of popularity in the U.S. as other sports like American football, basketball, and baseball. But Lionel Messi’s arrival changed everything.

1. The Messi Effect

Messi’s signing with Inter Miami created a ripple effect:

  • Ticket Sales: Matches featuring Messi have sold out within minutes.
  • Broadcast Ratings: MLS viewership has skyrocketed, with Messi’s games drawing millions of viewers.
  • Merchandise Sales: Messi’s Inter Miami jersey became the highest-selling sports jersey in the U.S.

2. A Role Model for All

Messi’s humility, dedication, and sportsmanship have made him relatable to Americans. Unlike other superstar athletes, Messi is known for letting his game speak for itself. His quiet charisma has resonated with fans of all ages.

3. Bridging Cultures

Messi’s presence has also helped bridge cultural gaps. As a Spanish-speaking icon, he has connected with the growing Hispanic community in the U.S. while simultaneously winning over English-speaking fans.

4. Celebrity Connections

Messi’s interactions with American celebrities have further fueled his popularity. From LeBron James to Serena Williams, Messi has been embraced by the American sports and entertainment elite.

Messi received his MVP award from his sons, Thiago, Ciro, Mateo, and the Inter Miami youth academy.
Messi received his MVP award from his sons, Thiago, Ciro, Mateo, and the Inter Miami youth academy.

Why 2025 Feels Different

While Messi has always been a global superstar, his rise in America in 2025 feels unprecedented. There are several reasons why Americans have embraced Messi like never before:

  1. The Underdog Story

    Despite his incredible talent, Messi’s journey has not always been easy. From leaving Barcelona under difficult circumstances to facing challenges at PSG, his resilience has endeared him to American fans who love a good comeback story.

  2. American Dream Narrative

    Messi’s success in the MLS aligns with the American Dream—proving that hard work and talent can lead to extraordinary achievements.

  3. The Family Man

    Messi’s devotion to his wife, Antonela, and their three children has also charmed the American public. His image as a grounded, family-oriented individual contrasts with the flashy lifestyles often associated with superstar athletes.

Messi’s Impact on Soccer in America

Since Messi’s arrival, the MLS has entered a new era.

  • Youth Soccer Boom: Soccer academies across the U.S. have reported increased enrollments, with young players citing Messi as their inspiration.
  • Sponsorship Growth: Major brands have invested in the MLS, with Messi as the league’s primary ambassador.
  • Cultural Shift: Soccer is no longer seen as a fringe sport but as a legitimate part of the American sports landscape.

A Look Ahead

The rest of 2025 looks equally promising for Messi. Inter Miami is in contention for multiple titles, and Messi is expected to play a key role in Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers. Off the pitch, he continues to be a global ambassador for soccer and an inspiration to millions.

FAQs

1. Why did Lionel Messi receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom?

Messi received the award for his contributions to soccer in America and his role in promoting unity and inspiration through sports.

2. How has Messi impacted soccer in the U.S.?

Messi has significantly increased the popularity of soccer in the U.S., driving up ticket sales, viewership, and youth participation.

3. How much is Messi earning in the MLS?

Messi reportedly earns around $50–60 million annually, including salary and endorsements.

4. Why do Americans love Messi so much?

Americans admire Messi for his talent, humility, and family values. His underdog story and ability to inspire resonate deeply with U.S. audiences.

5. What records has Messi broken in the MLS?

Messi has broken records for goals scored, assists, and ticket sales since joining the league.

6. How does Messi balance his career and personal life?

Messi is known for prioritizing his family, often sharing moments with his wife and children on social media.

7. What is the Messi Effect?

The Messi Effect refers to the surge in soccer’s popularity in the U.S., driven by Messi’s presence in the MLS.

8. Will Messi retire in the MLS?

While Messi has not confirmed his retirement plans, he has expressed happiness with his life and career in Miami.

9. How has Messi inspired young American athletes?

Messi’s work ethic, skills, and sportsmanship have motivated young athletes to pursue their dreams, both in soccer and beyond.

10. What’s next for Messi?

Messi is focused on helping Inter Miami win titles and leading Argentina to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Lionel Messi’s journey in 2025 is a testament to his enduring greatness. From receiving a historic honor from President Biden to revitalizing his career and becoming a beloved figure in the U.S., Messi continues to prove why he is not just a football legend but a global icon.

As America’s admiration for Messi grows, so does his legacy, solidifying his status as one of the most influential athletes of all time.