Football superstar Lionel Messi and legendary Actor Denzel Washington were among the recipients of the USA Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday.

The two were among the standout names among a handful of high-profile personalities recognised by the US Government during the ceremony at the White House in Washington presided over by incumbent President Joe Biden.

The President Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honour in the USA and is presented by the head of state (the President) 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.

Other note-worthy names recognised in this year’s ceremony included NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, former US Secretary of State and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, Hollywood icon and advocate Micheal J Fox, and legendary fashion designer Ralph Lauren.

The medal presentation is among the final of such official duties by the outgoing President Joe Biden, as his tenure concludes on January 20.