Why Lionel Messi Did Not Deserve the Presidential Medal of Freedom

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The Global Game’s Most Lavish Honor, Misplaced and Misguided: A Critical Analysis of the Presidential Medal of Freedom Awarded to Lionel Messi

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, bestowed upon individuals who have made “especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, culture, or a technical field, of considerable duration and difficulty, and of invaluable service to mankind.” On March 4, 2020, the American government honored Argentina’s most legendary footballer, Lionel Messi, with this prestigious accolade. Amidst the cacophony of praise and accolades, a deafening silence persists – did he truly deserve such an honor? This article attempts to answer the question, analyzing the circumstances, criteria, and consequences of such a decision.

The Rise to Global Icon: Messi’s Outstanding Football Career
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Undoubtedly, Messi’s on-pitch achievements make him one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Six Ballon d’Or wins, ten La Liga titles, and four UEFA Champions League championships are merely the tip of the iceberg. Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has consistently outperformed the competition, often single-handedly carrying his team to victory with his mesmerizing skills and instinctive goal-scoring ability.

However, accolades are a double-edged sword. Critics argue that a footballer, no matter how exceptional, shouldn’t be lauded with such a high national honor. Other notable figures who have received the Presidential Medal of Freedom include former presidents, groundbreaking scientists, pioneers in civil rights, and heroic first responders – individuals whose efforts have transcended the realm of sports. Doesn’t this set a concerning precedent, elevating athletic prowess to an unprecedented pedestal?

Beyond Football: Messi’s Off-Pitch Impact
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One cannot deny Messi’s philanthropic work, particularly with his charitable organization, the Lionel Messi Foundation, which focuses on providing educational resources and medical attention to underprivileged children. In 2014, he collaborated with UNICEF to bring attention to childhood malnutrition. These initiatives do demonstrate a dedication to making a positive impact on the world – but is that enough to justify the Presidential Medal of Freedom?

In comparison to other honorees, whose contributions have consistently pushed the boundaries of human achievement, Messi’s philanthropic work, although noteworthy, pales in comparison. His actions have not fundamentally shifted the course of human history; they have instead contributed to an already established ecosystem of goodwill, where celebrities leverage their platforms for social causes. While admirable, this does not warrant the Medal of Freedom.

The Criteria, the Context, and the Consequences
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy “to recognize persons who have made especially meritorious contributions” to the national interests of the United States or world peace, culture, or a technical field. Messi, as a result, must demonstrate a significant correlation between his on-pitch performance and his contribution to these interests.

The case for Messi hinges on his appeal as a symbol of Argentine cultural pride and economic growth. Soccer is a cherished national pastime in Argentina, and Messi has become an enduring ambassador for his country. One could argue that his success, both on and off the field, has attracted international attention and investment, benefitting the local economy. Yet, this correlation is tenuous at best and does not qualify as a profound, long-standing contribution to American interests.

Critics of Messi’s award emphasize the precedent this sets for sports figures in general. Will each successful athlete from now on expect a similar accolade? Doesn’t this belittle the magnitude of true service to humanity and the national interest? By handing the Medal of Freedom to a footballer, the American government has, indeed, created an unflattering precedent.

A Call to Refocus
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The controversy surrounding Messi’s Presidential Medal of Freedom serves as a catalyst to reevaluate our priorities. Who truly deserves these highest honors, and what qualities do they demonstrate? In recent years, it seems that individual achievements, as remarkable as they may be, have become overly emphasized, pushing aside the most pressing issues.

As we honor exceptional individuals, we must simultaneously acknowledge the complexity of human issues and the lasting impact of global challenges. While Messi’s award may have reignited passion among soccer fans and Argentine patriots, it diminishes the overall significance of this prestigious award, which should elevate humanity as a whole.

As we strive for a more meritocratic and selfless society, we must strive to recognize genuine contributions to our collective betterment. In honoring Lionel Messi, we inadvertently sent a message – that exceptional sporting achievements are valued above the tangible, life-altering advancements others have made.

Conclusion
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded to Lionel Messi has sparked intense debate, fueling discussions around the criteria and context of the award. On one hand, Messi’s undeniably incredible football career warrants recognition. However, his charitable work, no matter how meaningful, does not rise to the level of profoundly impacting humanity and the national interests of the United States.

To restore the esteemed reputation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the American government would do well to revisit its guidelines and ensure future honorees embody the lofty ideals upon which this award was founded. Ultimately, it is our collective duty to reposition the spotlight where it belongs – on those truly deserving of the highest civilian honors, those whose tireless work has brought immeasurable service to mankind, and whose sacrifices have elevated us all.