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.

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,

Messi’s management team and his pro team, Inter Miami, informed the White House ahead of time that he would not be able to attend the ceremony due to scheduling conflicts.