Soccer Star Lionel Messi Misses Presidential Medal Ceremony with President Joe Biden

Messi's representatives released a statement through Inter Miami stating that Messi was unable to attend due to a prior commitment.

"The White House informed FIFA, who informed the club at the end of December that Leo was going to be awarded with this recognition," the statement read.

"Leo, through the club, sent a letter to the White House saying that he is deeply honored and that it is a profound privilege to receive this recognition but that due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments he was going to be unable to attend. 

"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."

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Biden handed USA women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe the medal in 2022, the first time a soccer player has been given the honor.

(This story has not been edited by staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)