Magic Johnson, Lionel Messi get Presidential Medal of Freedom

Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Lionel Messi received the Presidential Medal of Freedom during a ceremony Saturday at the White House.

President Joe Biden bestowed the honor to 19 of the most famous names in politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy and science.

The White House said the recipients have made “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.”

Often regarded as the greatest point guard of all time, Johnson, 65, was a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers before retiring abruptly in 1991 after announcing that he had contracted HIV. He was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. A two-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, he was enshrined in 2002 for his individual career and in 2010 as a member of the Dream Team.

Since his retirement, Johnson has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention. His philanthropic work also supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation.

After his playing career, Johnson joined ownership groups for the Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, Los Angeles FC…