World · Malaysia Bureau
Messi honoured with Spain's Princess of Asturias Award for Sports
Argentina's Lionel Messi has received one of Spain's most prestigious sporting honours, with the heir to the Spanish throne presenting the award and lauding his exceptional career achievements.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Argentine football legend was presented with the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports by Princess Leonor during a ceremony recognising his contributions to the sport. The annual award, considered among Spain's most esteemed accolades, celebrates outstanding sporting achievements and global impact.
Princess Leonor, the heir to the Spanish throne, commended Messi's distinctive career trajectory, highlighting his consistency and influence across decades at the highest level of professional football. The recognition underscores the international esteem in which the forward is held beyond his native Argentina.
Messi's storied career spans multiple decades, during which he has secured numerous individual and team honours, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards and an Olympic gold medal. His recent move to professional football in North America has continued to maintain his prominence in global sports discourse.
The Princess of Asturias Awards, established in 1981, are presented annually across multiple categories including sports, arts, literature, and scientific research. The awards celebrate individuals and institutions whose work has made significant contributions to humanity and global progress.