'Frail' Muhammad Ali makes rare appearance at humanitarian awards function

US boxing legend Muhammad Ali had reportedly made a rare public appearance at an event in his hometown to pay homage to others for their humanitarian work, despite suffering from Parkinson's disease.

Former US President Jimmy Carter, music artists and young leaders of groups helping the underprivileged were among those honored at the inaugural Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards in Louisville, Kentucky.

According to CNN, Ali posed for pictures and participated in presenting the awards even though he could barely utter a word, adding that he has never retreated from public life despite the disease robbing him of the speed, wit and charisma that made him one of the most famous sports figures in recent history.

Stating that Ali made the appearance to inspire others to carry on his legacy, Ali's wife, Lonnie said that even though Parkinson's disease has taken a severe toll on Ali, his commitment to social justice has not wavered.

Recipients of the awards included 22-year-old Tanvi Girotra of India, who leads a global youth organization fighting sex trafficking and empowering women, while pop singer Christina Aguilera received the humanitarian of the year award for her work on global hunger relief, the report added.