The Argentine World Cup winner and eight times Ballon d’Or winner, now plays in the United States for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami.

Messi is the first Argentine to receive the honor and the first male soccer player.

But while other recipients of the award, including U2 singer and activist Bono, former basketball star Earvin “Magic” Johnson and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, attended the ceremony at the White House, Messi was absent.

Messi’s representatives said in a statement distributed by Inter Miami that Messi had 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.”

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

By Agencies

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Brazilian team Palmeiras and Portugal’s Porto complete Group A alongside Argentina World Cup winner Messi, whose Miami team were handed a spot by FIFA after finishing top of the regular season standings in MLS.

Messi’s former Barcelona team-mate, Brazilian Neymar, will have a reunion with La Liga rivals and European champions Real Madrid in Group H.

Twelve European clubs will feature in the tournament with Manchester City facing Juventus in Group G of a tournament which FIFA president Gianni Infantino said would “start a new era in club football”.

Paris Saint-Germain were drawn in a tough group with Atletico Madrid, Copa Libertadores winners Botafogo of Brazil and Seattle Sounders.

FIFA has had to deal with some scepticism over the need for the tournament and the chances of it capturing the imagination of fans but there was plenty of support for the competition among those at the draw.

Club officials and former players gathered for Thursday’s draw and US President-elect Donald Trump sent his best wishes in a video message before the ceremony, which took place during a 90-minute live broadcast from a television studio in Miami.

“The event is going to be incredible,” said Trump in his message where he praised Infantino as a “winner”.

“We’ve known each other a long time and I’m so honoured to have this kind of relationship because soccer is going through the roof as everyone knows,” he added.

The USA will co-host the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada.

-Clubs supportive-

Trump’s daughter Ivanka took part in the draw which was presented by former Juventus and Italy forward Alessandro Del Piero and featured celebrities such as model Adriana Lima.

The final of the tournament will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13.

FIFA had struggled to find sponsors and broadcasters for the new tournament but on Wednesday announced a global deal with streaming company DAZN, who will show the games for free.

The world governing body has faced opposition from some in the game over the new tournament.

FIFpro and the European Leagues body filed a joint complaint to the European Commission against FIFA over the introduction of the tournament into the international match calendar.

Opponents of the new tournament have said it adds further congestion to an already crowded schedule and increases the workload of players.

But there was little but backing for the competition from the clubs and leagues who will be represented next year.

“We are very supportive of this tournament, We are excited,” said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who is also chairman of the European Clubs Association.

Al-Khelaifi said the tournament was a better way for clubs to perform in the USA than in pre-season friendly tours and would help PSG to spread their brand.

There was also support from Don Garber, commissioner of Major League Soccer and vice-chair of the World Leagues Association.

“The tournament took time to generate all the interest that you are seeing here today,” said the American.

“Good things come to those that sort of put in the work and FIFA put in the work and we’re going to have lots of our stadiums involved,

“There are 100 million fans who follow what we call league (club) soccer and they’re going to be interested to see MLS teams and Mexican teams and see teams from all Europe, South America and the rest of the world, so I’m excited about it, I really am,” added Garber.

By Agencies

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Messi, who has a contract with the MLS squad until the end of the 2025 campaign, made his comments to ESPN in an interview to be broadcast on Wednesday.

“Yes, as of today, I think it’s going to be my last club,” Messi told ESPN.

But Messi, who turns 37 on June 24, also added, “I’m not ready to leave football either.”

The record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner became a legend with Barcelona, helping capture four Champions League crowns and 10 La Liga titles.

Messi sparked Argentina victories in the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup and is set to play for Argentina in this month’s Copa America, to be staged in the United States.

After playing for Barca from 2004-2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain from 2021-2023 and then moved to Inter Miami last year, helping the club win the Leagues Cup crown in his early days with the squad.

“It was a difficult step to leave Europe to come here,” Messi said.

“The fact of having been world champion helped a lot to see things differently also.”

Messi’s star turn raised the profile for MLS in the United States, matches selling out wherever he plays and his shirt by far the most popular among MLS jersey purchasers.

Messi now ponders playing for his homeland in the 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the USA with Mexico and Canada, and is contemplating the end of his incredible career.

“My whole life I did this. I love playing ball. I enjoy the training, the day every day, of the matches. A little afraid that everything will end,” Messi said.

“I try to enjoy. That’s why I enjoy everything much more, because I’m aware that there’s less and less to go and I have a good time at the club.

“How lucky I am to have colleagues and friends by my side. I had a good time in the selection, where I have teammates and friends too, and many of them, and I enjoy the little details that I know I’m going to miss when I don’t play anymore.”

By Agencies

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Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Messi has won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards and is the all-time top scorer for Argentina with 106 international goals.

Messi began his youth career with Grandoli and Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina before joining Barcelona’s youth academy at age 13.

He made his professional debut for Barcelona in 2004 and went on to become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 672 goals.

Messi won numerous titles with Barcelona, including 10 La Liga championships and 4 UEFA Champions League titles.

In 2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain, where he won two Ligue 1 titles.

In 2023, he signed with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

Internationally, Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, winning the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player.

Known for his dribbling, vision and goal-scoring ability, Messi is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Siblings

Messi has three siblings, namely Rodrigo Messi, Matias Messi, and Maria Sol Messi.

Rodrigo Messi, Lionel’s elder brother, manages his business affairs and daily schedule.

Matias Messi, another elder brother, is involved in managing Lionel’s professional brands.

Maria Sol Messi, Lionel’s younger sister, is a social media influencer.

Each sibling plays a unique role in supporting Lionel’s career and personal life, showcasing a strong family bond within the Messi family.

Parents

Messi’s parents are Jorge Messi, his father and Celia Cuccittini, his mother.

Jorge worked as a steel factory worker, while Celia Cuccittini was employed at a magnet manufacturing workshop.

Also Read: Lainey Wilson Siblings: All About Janna Wilson Sadler

From an early age, Jorge recognized his son’s exceptional talent and took an active role in managing Lionel’s football career.

Since the early 2000s, Jorge has served as Lionel’s agent, handling crucial decisions regarding his career and business matters.

The Messi family, including Lionel’s parents and siblings, generally try to avoid the limelight as much as possible.

Career

Messi began his youth career with Grandoli and Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina before joining Barcelona’s youth academy at age 13.

He made his professional debut for Barcelona in 2004 and went on to become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 672 goals.

Messi won numerous titles with Barcelona, including 10 La Liga championships and 4 UEFA Champions League titles.

In 2021, he joined Paris Saint-Germain, where he won two Ligue 1 titles. In 2023, he signed with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

Internationally, Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, winning the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player.

He is the all-time top scorer for Argentina with 106 international goals.

Awards

Messi has received a total of eight Ballon d’Or awards and three The Best FIFA Men’s Player awards, making him one of the most decorated footballers in history.

He holds the record for the most goals in La Liga, the Supercopa de España, and the UEFA Super Cup, along with being the player with the most official recorded assists in football history.

Throughout his career, he has scored an impressive 826 goals for club and country and has won a total of 44 collective trophies.

Messi’s list of individual honors and awards is extensive, showcasing his exceptional talent and impact on the sport.

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The 36-year-old was recognised at the ceremony in Paris after helping his country win the World Cup in Qatar last year.

England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy for the world’s best player aged under 21.

Messi won his record-extending Ballon d’Or award ahead of Manchester City forward Erling Haaland.

France forward Kylian Mbappe – who became just the second man to score a World Cup final hat-trick in the 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Argentina – finished third.

“It’s nice to be here once more to enjoy this moment,” Messi said. “To be able to win the World Cup and achieve my dream.”

The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain star added: “I couldn’t imagine having the career I’ve had and everything I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had to be part of the best team in history.

“All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons.”

Norway international Haaland scored a record-breaking 36 goals in 35 league games and hit 52 in all competitions as City won the Treble of Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

He was recognised for his achievements with the Gerd Muller Trophy for best goalscorer.

“I want to thank Manchester City, the whole club,” said Haaland.

“I also want to thank my family and all the people around me for making me who I am today.”

Messi moves further out in front of the rest

The Ballon d’Or recognises the best footballer of the year and is voted for by 100 journalists from around the world.

As well as helping Argentina to World Cup glory, Messi also played a key role as Inter Miami won their first trophy – the Leagues Cup – and has scored 11 goals in 14 appearances for the Major League Soccer side.

He has now won three more Ballon d’Or awards than anyone else, with Cristiano Ronaldo having won it five times, most recently in 2017.

The Portugal international, who plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, was not named on the shortlist for the first time since 2003.

Martinez recognised as world’s best goalkeeper

Argentina World Cup winner and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez won the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper in the world.

Martinez won the Golden Glove in Qatar, saving a spot-kick from Kingsley Coman in the penalty shootout win against France in the final.

He also helped Aston Villa finish seventh in the Premier League and secure a place in the Europa Conference League.

However, Martinez was jeered by some of the crowd at the Paris ceremony. The goalkeeper was criticized for this celebration after winning the World Cup against France last year.

Manchester City win club of year award

Manchester City were named the club of the year at the awards for the second year running.

Pep Guardiola’s side became only the second English team to win the Treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup last season.

They had seven players shortlisted for the men’s Ballon d’Or award.

Vinicius Jr recognised as he vows to fight against racism

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr received the Socrates Award for his contribution off the field and vowed to keep speaking out against racism in world football.

Vinicius has been the target of racist abuse regularly in La Liga games for the past two seasons.

He was recognised for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in Brazil.

“I will remain strong in the fight against racism,” said the Brazilian. “It is a very sad thing to talk about racism nowadays, but we have to continue in the fight so that people suffer less.”

Beckham pays tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton

Former England and Manchester United midfielder David Beckham presented the men’s Ballon d’Or to Messi, but before announcing the winner he paid tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton.

The England World Cup winner died at the age of 86 earlier this month.

“I probably don’t have to tell this room how special Sir Bobby was to the world of football,” Beckham said.

“He was respected on the field for what he won but was respected even more off the field for what he stood for.

“He will be missed. When we looked up into the stands he would always be there cheering us on.

“He started it off for me. If it was not for Sir Bobby turning around to Manchester United and saying ‘watch this young man’ I probably would not have played for Manchester United.

“I owe him everything.”

Ballon d’Or top 10

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina and PSG/Inter Miami)

2. Erling Haaland (Norway and Manchester City)

3. Kylian Mbappe (France and PSG)

4. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium and Manchester City)

5. Rodri (Spain and Manchester City)

6. Vinicius Jr (Brazil and Real Madrid)

7. Julian Alvarez (Argentina and Manchester City)

8. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria and Napoli)

9. Bernardo Silva (Portugal and Manchester City)

10. Luka Modric (Croatia and Real Madrid)

By BBC

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The Argentines swept aside Italy 3-0 in the Finalissima – a game between the champions of Europe and South America – on Wednesday.

Messi provided two assists in that game and he was once again in vintage form.

He opened the scoring with a penalty and then struck two more goals in either half to complete the rout.

It is the first time the 34-year-old has scored five in a game for his country. In fact, he has only ever achieved the feat once before in his career, in a 7-1 win for Barcelona over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League in 2012.

Read: Lewandowski Pips Messi, Salah To Fifa Best Award

His third against Estonia, two minutes after half-time, took him level on 84 goals with Ferenc Puskas as the fourth highest-scorer in the history of men’s international football.

Fourteen minutes later, his fourth of the game meant he had surpassed the legendary Hungarian and now holds that position outright, behind only Malaysia’s Mokhtar Dahari (89), Iran’s Ali Daei (109) and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (117).

He would have been closer still to Ronaldo, but the Portuguese scored twice in his country’s Nations League win against Switzerland on Sunday.

Messi’s goals in Pamplona demonstrated his vast array of skills.

He put Lionel Scaloni’s team ahead with a calm penalty after eight minutes, then doubled the lead with a powerful side-footed effort into the roof of the net from a tight angle.

Read Also: Lionel Messi Hoping For Future Return To Barcelona

His third was a predatory finish, showing his trademark precision to direct Nahuel Molina’s right-wing cross into the bottom corner from 12 yards.

His fourth owed much to his alertness. As other players stopped and anticipated a free-kick award that never came, Messi picked up a loose ball, drove into the box, produced a dummy which left the Estonia keeper and a defender lying on the ground and rolled the ball into the empty net.

He concluded his remarkable performance when he was again quickest to react to a loose ball and slotted in a low finish from next to the penalty spot with 14 minutes remaining.

While Estonia did not provide the sternest of tests, this result – coupled with the victory over Italy, their unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign and last year’s Copa America triumph – suggests Messi could yet have a great chance of winning the World Cup, the one trophy that has eluded him in his glittering career.

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Messi, 34, made an emotional exit from the Nou Camp in August after more than 20 years, joining Paris St-Germain.

While he is not thinking about retirement yet, he “would love to be a sporting director at some point”.

He added: “I don’t know if it will be in Barcelona or if it will be something else. If there’s the chance, I would like to go back and contribute.”

In an interview with Spanish newspaper Sport, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner said: “I always said that I would love to be able to help the club.

Read: Pep: If Messi Is Happy, I’m Equally Happy

“If there is a possibility, I would like to contribute again because it’s the club that I love and I would love for it to continue doing well, to continue growing and to continue being one of the best in the world.”

Messi added: “We are going to live in Barcelona again and our life will be there.

“It’s what my wife wants and what I want. I don’t know when my contract with PSG ends but we’ll go back to Barcelona to live.”

Messi scored 672 goals for Barcelona, but departed when his contract expired as mounting debts made it impossible for the club to afford a new deal.

Read Also: Messi: It Would Be Strange To Face Barcelona In Another Shirt

Talk of retirement is not on his agenda, and he refused to rule out playing on beyond the Qatar World Cup next winter, by which time he will be 35.

“After all that has happened to me, I just live day to day, year after year,” he said. “I do not know what is going to happen at the World Cup or after it. I am not thinking about it.”

Messi also dismissed suggestions he refused to play for free, claiming he did everything he could to remain at the club.

“The truth is, as I explained when I left, I did everything possible to stay,” he added.

“Never at any moment did they ask me to play for free. They asked me to reduce my salary by 50% and I did it without any problem.”

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The goal was Messi’s first since his big move to the French giants in August. He promised more to come.

“Very happy for the win in a complicated match and for having scored my first goal. Many more to come,” the former Barcelona star posted on Facebook.

Read: Messi Joins PSG On a Two-Year Deal

City’s manager Pep Guardiola after the match reunited with Messi in the locker room.

“If Lionel Messi is happy in this period in Paris, I will be so happy for him. He made me so happy at Barcelona,” Pep said after the match.

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Barcelona failed to keep the Argentine, who was more than willing to stay over what the Spanish giants termed as “financial obstacles.”

Up and till his departure, the 34-year-old had not known any other club apart from Barcelona.

Read: Messi Joins PSG On a Two-Year Deal

“It was very complicated to exit Barcelona without knowing where I was going to go. Barcelona is my home, I have been there since I was a kid.”

Probed about the prospect of facing his former side, Messi said it would be strange.

“I don’t know if we will face Barcelona. It would be very nice to go back to Barcelona. I hope it would be with fans given the pandemic. It would be very strange to play there in another shirt but it can happen and we will see.”

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Sources at the French club confirmed Messi’s lawyers had been pouring over the contract proposal since Sunday but gave it their approval this morning and Messi will travel to Paris from his home in Barcelona.

A press conference is set to take place on Wednesday at the Parc des Princes.

Read: Messi Expected In Paris To Complete PSG Move

The final points of negotiation are understood to have concerned the six-time Ballon d’Or winners image rights, as well as the breakdown of his wages and various bonuses.

The player’s representatives and Barcelona had earlier moved to dispel reports that the Spanish side made a last ditch bid to keep Messi.

Sources close to negotiations have re-affirmed that Barcelona could not afford to keep Messi even if he stayed for free as, even without him, they are above the wage cap for LaLiga this season. For that reason they did not attempt to persuade Messi to drop his salary.

Messi had remained at home in Barcelona awaiting the all-clear to travel to Paris ahead of agreeing a three year deal.

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