The most successful freestyler of all time did not let the inaugural World Freestyle Football Championship held in Africa down: Norwegian legend Erlend Fagerli won his tenth World Champion title after defeating rising French talent Tristan Gac in the male final, solidifying his place as the sport’s undisputed legend.
This was Fagerli’s final official competition and the first World Freestyle Football Championships ever staged in Africa.
“I’m just… so happy,” stated Fagerli in a statement following his victory as the 2023 male Freestyle Football champion. Winning a major competition just before you retire from the professional circuit is really unique. The level this year was so high that I wasn’t sure I would win at all. The evolution of the sport from my initial days is truly remarkable!
Aguska Mnich, a Polish celebrity, stunned the boisterous audience at the Bomas of Kenya with her incredible performance. She defeated Dutch powerhouse Jasmijn Janssen in the female final to win her sixth world championship.
I’ve been working so hard for this… I almost can’t believe it happened.
It’s truly a dream to be here and be the world champion again. I had many difficulties on the way here, but thanks to my trust in God, I’ve finally made it. I know it wasn’t me – it’s all thanks to Him.
Aguska Mnich, New Female World Champion
With qualification events taking place on every continent in the globe, the 2023 World Freestyle Football Championship was the first World Final to take place under the new Pulse Series competitive structure.
The World Freestyle Football Championship Finals are determined by a series of fiercely competitive competitions known as the WFFA Pulse Series, which also serves as a regional qualifying event.
Additionally, the event was aired on Juventus’ TikTok channel for the first time, where it was met with great success.
Edward Murimi, the WFFA official from Kenya, commended the local athletes for their exceptional efforts, stating, “While the Kenyan athletes may not have secured the titles this time, their dedication, support, and passion showcased for the sport are commendable. The exposure and experience gained from the championship will undoubtedly inspire more individuals in Kenya to explore freestyle football. We encourage everyone to embrace the sport and its vibrant community.”
The World Freestyle Football Association (WFFA) and the Kenyan organization Homeboyz collaborated to organize the World Freestyle Football Championship for 2023.
