The European Parliament has named its first-ever recipients of the European Order of Merit, with Milwaukee Bucks superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo recognized as one of the honored individuals.
The new honor, announced Tuesday by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, is a prestigious political award recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to European integration or played a key role in advancing and defending European values.
PM Mitsotakis Congratulated Giannis Antetokounmpo For European Order of Merit Award – https://t.co/YLHzKImXVa #tovimacom #news https://t.co/PZ9YXxkjg6
— tovima.com (@tovimacom) March 11, 2026
In her speech introducing the honorees, President Metsola highlighted that the Order aims to honor individuals who have actively helped shape the continent.
“Europe has always been built by its people—those who bridge divides, break down walls, overcome dictatorships, and navigate crises to forge a better future,” remarked the European Parliament President. “With the European Order of Merit, we honor those who did not simply believe in Europe, but who actively helped build it.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo named a member of the European Order of Merit
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Greece small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) runs onto the court before the game against Germany during a mens basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Antetokounmpo was named a Member of the European Order of Merit, joining an exclusive group of honorees that features world leaders, humanitarian figures, and cultural icons, including former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and the band U2.
The Order is a highly exclusive honor, limited to no more than twenty recipients annually. By receiving it, Antetokounmpo joins leaders from fields such as diplomacy, academia, healthcare, and humanitarian work, all recognized for their significant contributions to European society and values.
Jul 30, 2024; Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France; Greece small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts against Spain in a men’s basketball group stage match during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Nominations for the Order came from a distinguished group of heads of state, government officials, and EU institution leaders, highlighting the honor’s exceptional prestige.
The first class of European Order of Merit recipients has been invited to a formal award ceremony in Strasbourg, set to take place during the plenary session from May 18 to 21, 2026.