Lionel Messi Crowns Champions at the Inaugural 1v1 World Crown Tournament in Miami

The vibrant city of Miami, known for its dynamic culture and love for sports, recently played host to a groundbreaking event - the inaugural Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown Tournament. This exciting competition came to a thrilling conclusion on September 19, 2025, and marked a significant milestone in soccer history as it crowned the first champions of this unique tournament.

The event, held at Wynwood Marketplace, attracted aspiring athletes from all corners of the globe, including participants from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. These competitors demonstrated their skills during a series of intense matches and were ultimately vying for a chance to be crowned champions in front of none other than the legendary Lionel Messi himself.

Messi, often hailed as one of the greatest soccer players to ever grace the field, co-founded the Más+ by Messi hydration drink brand, which proudly sponsored the tournament. The anticipation was palpable as the tournament kicked off in Los Angeles on August 2, and it traveled through Toronto, London, and Dublin before culminating in Miami. Fans and players alike gathered for this electrifying showdown, eager to witness the fierce 1v1 battles where only two participants would emerge victorious.

In an electrifying atmosphere filled with cheers and excitement, the final matches were nothing short of spectacular. Evan Deasy, an 18-year-old from Cork, Ireland, and Melanie Russo, a 29-year-old from Miami, emerged as the champions of the first-ever men's and women's 1v1 tournaments. As they received their crowns from Messi, the smile on their faces reflected the culmination of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for the game.

Both winners received a prize of $5,000 and a beautifully crafted World Crown, modeled after Messi's own Ballon d'Or rings, created by renowned jeweler Joe Bazanetti. The significance of this accolade was not lost on them. Messi expressed his delight in the opportunity the tournament provided, noting, "It's really exciting to see and share this platform for the game that is 1v1. This way of challenging yourself is integral to the sport, and it's a joy to witness the global talent on display."

The event was rich with entertainment, featuring local musicians like Miami's Southern Legion 305 Band, who energized the crowd, and an array of Messi-signed giveaways that made the experience even more memorable. The final showdown in Miami embraced the essence of soccer, where each participant showcased their individual skills in head-to-head showdowns that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

Evan Deasy, reflecting on his remarkable victory, shared, "Winning the first-ever Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown is a complete dream come true. Having my family witness me play, especially in front of Messi, made this experience beyond special. I couldn't have asked for more." Meanwhile, Melanie Russo expressed her gratitude, stating, "1v1 is my favorite aspect of soccer, and I am so thankful for this opportunity to showcase my talent. I hope this paves the way for future opportunities for me."

The Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown has undoubtedly set a new standard for grassroots soccer competitions, creating a unique platform for the next generation of players to shine. With the success of this inaugural tournament, the world anticipates what the future holds for this innovative format. It's a beautiful reminder that talent can emerge from anywhere, and Messi’s initiative is sure to uncover more hidden stars in the world of soccer.

With the excitement lingering in the air, spectators and participants alike are eagerly waiting to see who will rise to the challenge in the next installment of this exhilarating competition. As the world looks forward to the next chapter of the Más+ by Messi journey, the spirit of community, sportsmanship, and talent continues to inspire future generations.