Oviedo:Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has made history by becoming the first footballer to individually win the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The award was presented to Messi on Friday in the Spanish city of Oviedo.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the 39-year-old forward for Inter Miami was honored with the prestigious award by Princess Leonor at the Campoamor Theatre. The event was attended by notable figures including Spain's King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.

The accolade, announced on June 3, acknowledges Messi's outstanding sports career, his charitable endeavors, and his embodiment of values such as humility, teamwork, and fair play. The jury also praised his efforts to enhance education and healthcare access for underprivileged children, as well as his dedication to collective success.

Messi joins a distinguished list of football honorees, such as former Barcelona teammate Xavi Hernandez and goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who together received the award in 2012. Additionally, Brazil's national football team was awarded in 2002 following their fifth World Cup victory.