On January 4, 2025, outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, to 20 distinguished individuals, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, philanthropist George Soros, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, scientist Bill Nye, actor Denzel Washington, and Argentinian football star Lionel Messi.
The prestigious event took place in the East Room of the White House and was attended by former President Bill Clinton, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and other notable figures. Due to a scheduling conflict, Lionel Messi could not attend in person but was honored for his global impact as a sports icon.
President Biden, delivering an emotional farewell speech, said, “For the final time as President, I have the honor of bestowing the Medal of Freedom on a group of extraordinary people who shaped the culture and cause of America.”