Lionel Messi, a player of the "Inter Miami" club, did not attend the White House ceremony for the presentation of the highest U.S. award, the "Presidential Medal of Freedom."

Axar.az informs that this was reported by the Marca publication.

It was noted that Messi explained his absence from the ceremony due to prior commitments .

"He appreciated the gesture and noted that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet in the near future," the statement added.

The award is given 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," according to the White House.

The White House statement said that Messi had been given the award as "the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador."

It should be noted that earlier, the White House announced the list of people who would receive the "Presidential Medal of Freedom" from U.S. President Joe Biden, including former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, George Soros, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, as well as footballer Lionel Messi, musician Bono, and actor Denzel Washington.