Aitana Bonmatí, second Barça footballer to receive the Creu de Sant Jordi

The Generalitat de Catalunya has announced that Aitana Bonmatí will be one of the recipients of the Creu de Sant Jordi in 2024, a prestigious recognition awarded to those who have excelled in contributing to culture, civism, or Catalan identity. The FC Barcelona footballer, who recently won her second consecutive Ballon d'Or, thus becomes the second player from the club to receive this honor, following Alexia Putellas in 2021.

The Creu de Sant Jordi, created in 1981, is one of the most important distinctions in Catalonia and recognizes those who have provided exceptional service to the country. Aitana has been especially recognized for her defense of the Catalan language and the symbols of the region, visibility she has gained thanks to her international success.

Although the award is usually presented in April, this year it has been postponed due to the early elections to the Parliament, and the ceremony will take place at a later date. In addition to Aitana, other personalities such as Àngels Barceló, Kilian Jornet, and Eduard Fernández will also receive the recognition.

This award adds to the list of prizes that figures associated with Barça have received over the years, such as Johan Cruyff, Lionel Messi, and Pau Gasol, among others.