Biden to present Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, Lionel Messi

President Biden awards Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, Lionel Messi, Ralph Lauren, and others for exemplary contributions.

U.S. President Joe Biden has named former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, football superstar Lionel Messi, former Defence Secretary late Ashton Carter, and controversial investor George Soros, along with 14 others for the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the Nation's highest civilian honour, would be presented to the awardees at a White House ceremony by Mr. Biden on Saturday (January 4, 2025) afternoon.

The prestigious award is presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours, the White House said Saturday (January 4, 2025).

Mr. Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place.

They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world, the White House said.

Ms. Clinton made history many times over decades in public service, including as the first First Lady elected to the U.S. Senate. After serving as Secretary of State, she became the first woman nominated for President by a major U.S. political party, the White House said.

Mr. Soros is an investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Open Society Foundations.