"I’m honestly speechless" - NFL legend Brett Favre expresses concern over Lionel Messi and others winning Presidential Medal of Freedom award
NFL legend Brett Favre has expressed his concerns over United States President Joe Biden's decision to give Lionel Messi and a few others the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Argentine icon was one of the 19 great leaders recognized with the prestigious award on Saturday, January 4.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award given by the President of the United States to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.
The recipients of the award consist of global icons, including Lionel Messi, NBA icon Magic Johnson, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and philanthropist George Soros. Messi was given the award for his support of healthcare and educational programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation, which also serves as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
However, the inclusion of Lionel Messi and other international figures in the nation’s highest civilian honor sparked debates online about the purpose of the award.
Brett Favre is one of those who the recipients of the award didn’t sit well with. The former Green Bay Packers quarterback wrote on his X account:
''What words would you use to describe the White House medals that were given out because I’m honestly speechless. 😶''
Critics believe that the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award, should only be given to U.S. citizens who have made outstanding contributions to the country's values, security, or economy.
Why Lionel Messi didn’t attend White House ceremony to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom
While Lionel Messi was named among the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden, the Inter Miami talisman wasn’t present at the ceremony to receive the award. As a result, he was honored in absentia.
A statement was released on his behalf saying he couldn’t attend the ceremony due to a scheduling issue. The statement read:
"The White House informed FIFA, which informed the club at the end of December that Leo was to be awarded this recognition. Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he feels deeply honored and that it is a great privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments, he will not be able to attend. He thanked the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet with him in the near future."
Messi currently plies his trade in the Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami. He led them to winning the Leagues Cup in 2023, the club's first silverware and the MLS Supporters' Shield in 2024. He also became their highest-ever goalscorer last season (34).
