Lionel Messi's decision to skip a prestigious ceremony at the White House has sparked debate across the soccer world and beyond. On Saturday, the Inter Miami captain was set to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden.

Magic Johnson and Lionel Messi are among 19 people receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden, the White House announced Saturday, the morning of the awards. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States’ highest civilian honor.

On Saturday at the White House, President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to honor 19 people for their distinguished accomplishments. One person who was absent from that ceremony was Argentina soccer legend and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi,