Lionel Messi honored with Spain's top sports prize for career and charity

Lionel Messi was awarded Spain’s most prestigious sports honor, the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, during a ceremony in Oviedo, Asturias. The jury cited his unparalleled football record—eight Ballon d’Or titles, a World Cup, and numerous club trophies—and his initiatives that improve health and education for underprivileged children. Princess Leonor presented the 50,000-euro prize and praised his capacity to turn extraordinary skill into routine performance while prioritizing the collective over ego.

Messi, who recently ended his international career after a World Cup final loss, spoke to children about the value of learning to win and lose. The ceremony also recognized figures such as author Julian Barnes, astronaut Christina Koch and musician Patti Smith, while past sports laureates include Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal. Messi now plays for Inter Miami after periods with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.