On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions across various fields, including entertainment, sports, politics, and diplomacy.
This year’s honorees include iconic singer and activist Bono, NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, veteran fashion editor Anna Wintour, Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, acclaimed actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren.
A statement from the White House praised the recipients as “extraordinary individuals whose leadership and achievements have made a significant impact on the nation and the world.”
Other notable awardees this year include chef and humanitarian José Andrés, founder of the World Central Kitchen NGO, renowned primate researcher and environmentalist Jane Goodall, billionaire philanthropist George Soros, and former First Lady, senator, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.