Photographer's Camera Broken by Messi Free Kick During MLS Game Coverage

During an Inter Miami CF versus Austin FC Major League Soccer match on April 4, photographer Alex Rubio had his OM System OM-1 camera damaged by a stray free kick from legendary player Leo Messi. Rubio, who works for Verde All Day and Cinco Soles Media, was covering the game at Inter Miami's new stadium when Messi's final practice shot before the match deflected into his equipment. The incident was captured on video by journalist Manuel Moretta and subsequently went viral online. Initially thinking only his lens hood was broken, Rubio discovered five minutes into the game that his camera's shutter mechanism had failed. He continued covering the match using a backup camera. Rubio told PetaPixel he doesn't blame Messi for the incident, acknowledging the professional risks photographers take to capture moments for fans. His editor established a GoFundMe campaign where Austin FC supporters donated funds to replace his equipment, with remaining money being directed to The Laundry Project, a nonprofit supported by Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver. Rubio expressed surprise at the viral attention, noting his introverted nature and that friends and family continue to contact him about the incident.