Lionel Messi Honoured with US Presidential Medal of Freedom + Banking_SBI_Clerk?.ToString()?? Banking_SBI_Clerk?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in News?
Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi was awarded the US Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, by President Joe Biden on January 5, 2025. The award recognized Messi’s contributions to sports and global culture. Although Messi could not attend the ceremony due to scheduling conflicts, the honor marked a historic moment in his illustrious career.
Significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, established in 1945 by President Harry S. Truman and later renamed by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The medal is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in areas such as:
Security or national interests of the US.
World peace.
Cultural, public, or private endeavors.
The medal features a white star on a red pentagon, surrounded by five gold eagles, with a blue circle containing 13 gold stars at the center.
Other Honorees in 2025
President Biden recognized 19 public figures for their lifetime achievements across politics, entertainment, and sports. Notable awardees included:
Hillary Clinton (Democratic leader).
George Soros (philanthropist).
Robert F. Kennedy (posthumously).
Jane Goodall (anthropologist).
Denzel Washington (actor).
Biden also honored Republican leader Mitt Romney, showcasing bipartisan recognition.
Here’s the full list:
José Andrés
Bono
Ashton Baldwin Carter
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Michael J. Fox
Tim Gill
Jane Goodall
Fannie Lou Hamer
Earvin “Magic” Johnson
Robert F. Kennedy
Ralph Lauren
Lionel Messi
Bill Nye
George W. Romney
David M. Rubenstein
George Soros
George Stevens, Jr.
Denzel Washington
Anna Wintour
About the Award Process
The selection process for the Presidential Medal of Freedom is broad, with the President having the authority to choose recipients based on recommendations or personal initiative. Past awardees reflect the political and cultural priorities of the awarding administration.
Legacy of the Award
Over the years, recipients have included:
Rosa Parks (civil rights activist).
Bill Gates (Microsoft co-founder).
Oprah Winfrey (talk show host).
Muhammad Ali (boxing legend).
Elvis Presley (music icon).