On a chilly Saturday in the East Room of the White House, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 prominent figures from diverse fields including politics, sports, and science.

Noteworthy honorees included:

• Professional soccer player Lionel Messi, who was absent from the ceremony.
• Retired basketball icon Magic Johnson from the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Actor Michael J. Fox, a strong advocate for research on Parkinson’s disease.
• Known scientist Bill Nye.

Quote from Biden

“For the last time as president, I have the honor of presenting the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, to extraordinary individuals who have profoundly influenced American culture and causes.”

Biden expressed gratitude to the honorees for their significant contributions to the country.

Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State, received a warm ovation during the ceremony, accompanied by Bill Clinton, her husband, daughter Chelsea, and grandchildren. Ph.D. philanthropist George Soros and actor-director Denzel Washington were amongst the other esteemed recipients.

Additionally, four medals were awarded posthumously to influential figures such as George W. Romney, Robert F. Kennedy, Ash Carter, and Fannie Lou Hamer.

Major philanthropists like chef José Andrés and musician Bono were also recognized for their impactful contributions.

This year’s ceremony highlighted the culmination of President Biden’s awards as he approaches the end of his term. The White House emphasized the honorees’ exemplary contributions to society, public welfare, and global peace.