Lionel Messi's goal transformed into a stunning AI-generated art exhibit
Artificial Intelligence Brings Lionel Messi's Iconic Goal to Life
In a groundbreaking collaboration between artist Refik Anadol and Inter Miami CF, the AI-generated artwork "A Goal in Life" has reimagined Lionel Messi's favourite goal - a header scored in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final against Manchester United.
The artwork, officially titled Living Memory: Messi – A Goal in Life (2025), was created using nine unique AI algorithms combined with biometrics, multiple camera angles, and open-source motion tracking of 17 points on Messi’s body. These data sources included Messi’s body movements, expressions, voice, breathing rhythms, and heartbeat, which Anadol layered together to recreate this iconic moment visually and sensorially.
The result is an eight-minute long immersive "memory temple," offering a multi-sensory experience that invites audiences to step "into Lionel Messi’s mind" and relive the goal. The artwork was exhibited as a U-shaped installation at Christie’s New York Rockefeller Center from July 8 to 22, 2025, coinciding with Christie's Art+Tech Summit. Following the exhibition, the AI artwork was auctioned online for $1.87 million, with proceeds benefiting several nonprofits including Inter Miami CF Foundation’s global partnership with UNICEF.
In addition to the digital art piece, the auction included an 8-minute one-of-a-kind digital art, one authorized print (AP), and a non-fungible token (NFT) with certificates of authenticity signed by both Refik Anadol and Lionel Messi.
The project exemplifies the fusion of art, sport, and cutting-edge AI technology, preserving and transforming a singular sports memory into a dynamic digital experience that resonates both emotionally and visually. "A Goal in Life" serves as a reminder that AI art encompasses a broad range of creations, beyond text-based image generators.
Key details:
- Artwork title: Living Memory: Messi – A Goal in Life (2025)
- Subject: Messi’s favourite goal: 2009 Champions League final header vs. Manchester United
- Artistic methods: AI algorithms, biometrics, motion tracking, multiple camera angles, voice, heartbeat data
- Exhibition location & dates: Christie’s New York (Rockefeller Center), July 8–22, 2025
- Auction result: $1.87 million
- Charity beneficiaries: Inter Miami CF Foundation, UNICEF, and others supporting education in Latin America and the Caribbean
- Components sold: Digital art, authorized print, NFT with authenticity certificates signed by Anadol and Messi
References: [1] Artnet News [2] The Verge [3] Artforum [4] Art Daily
- The artwork Living Memory: Messi – A Goal in Life (2025) was a collaboration between artist Refik Anadol and Inter Miami CF, recreating Lionel Messi's favorite goal from the 2009 Champions League final.
- This immersive digital art piece was created using 3D technology, AI algorithms, biometrics, multiple camera angles, and motion tracking of 17 points on Messi’s body.
- The result was an eight-minute long multi-sensory experience that invited audiences to step into Lionel Messi’s mind and relive the goal.
- The artwork was exhibited as a U-shaped installation at Christie’s New York Rockefeller Center from July 8 to 22, 2025, coinciding with Christie's Art+Tech Summit.
- Following the exhibition, the AI artwork was auctioned online for $1.87 million, with proceeds benefiting several nonprofits including Inter Miami CF Foundation’s global partnership with UNICEF.
- In addition to the digital art piece, the auction included an 8-minute one-of-a-kind digital art, one authorized print (AP), and a non-fungible token (NFT) with certificates of authenticity signed by both Refik Anadol and Lionel Messi.
- The project showcases the fusion of art, sport, and cutting-edge AI technology, transforming a sports memory into a dynamic digital experience.
- This demonstrates that AI art extends beyond text-based image generators, encompassing a broad range of creations.
- The artificial intelligence-generated artwork, 'A Goal in Life', undoubtedly brings to life iconic moments, not just in sports like football and the Champions League, but also in the world of digital art and technology.
