Lionel Messi is set to add an unusual distinction to his illustrious career after the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) approved an honorary doctorate for the Argentina captain.
The university has unanimously approved the conferment of its highest honorary distinction, Doctor Honoris Causa, on Messi in recognition of his achievements in football and his wider influence on Argentine society.
The award ceremony is scheduled for October 6, just hours before Argentina’s expected farewell match for Messi against Benin at the Monumental Stadium.
The fixture is expected to mark Messi’s final appearance for the national team as he approaches the end of his 21-year international career.
UBA said the honour goes beyond Messi’s statistics and trophies, highlighting qualities including perseverance, humility and his commitment to representing Argentina.
The university pointed to Messi’s role in Argentina’s major international successes, including the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa America.
UBA Rector Ricardo Gelpi said the institution wanted to recognise Messi as a person as well as an athlete.
“Beyond what all Argentinians know about Messi, regardless of the numbers and statistics that attest to his status as an athlete, we also want to recognise a humble, persevering person, an example and ambassador of our popular culture and national identity,” Gelpi said.
Vice-Rector Emiliano Yacobitti also praised Messi for embodying the values associated with the Argentina shirt and leading the national team to the highest level of international football.
The honorary doctorate is traditionally awarded by UBA to individuals whose achievements and influence extend beyond their professional field.
Messi’s doctorate will therefore recognise not only his football career but also his broader cultural and social influence in Argentina.
The ceremony will form part of a series of tributes planned for Messi as Argentina prepares to honour its captain before his
expected final appearance in the national colours.
