Yankees’ Rivera Is Latest Athlete to Receive Medal of Freedom

Hall-of-famer is latest in a series of athletes Trump honored
Rivera has been long-time, strong supporter of president

Mariano Rivera throws the ceremonial first pitch before a game in New York on Aug. 17.Photographer: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

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By Justin Sink

September 16, 2019 at 12:52 PM UTC

Updated on

September 16, 2019 at 6:55 PM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

President Donald Trump awarded New York Yankees great Mariano Rivera with the nation’s highest civilian honor on Monday, weeks after the major league’s all-time-saves leader was enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Rivera, 49, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom during an afternoon ceremony at the White House. He becomes the latest in a series of athletes Trump has recognized with the award, following ceremonies for NBA hall-of-famers Jerry West and Bob Cousy and professional golfer Tiger Woods earlier this year.