The Brazilian football superstar, Neymar Jr, has transformed his body into a canvas of personal expression with numerous tattoos that tell his life story.
His tattoo collection began in 2010 and has evolved to cover significant portions of his body, including full sleeves, chest pieces, and leg artwork, representing important aspects of his life.
From family tributes and religious faith to football achievements and personal philosophies, each tattoo showcases Neymar’s personal journey and artistic taste.
Key Takeaways
- Neymar Jr’s tattoos represent his life story and personal expression.
- His tattoo collection started in 2010 and has grown significantly.
- The tattoos symbolize family, faith, football achievements, and personal philosophies.
- Neymar’s tattoos showcase his artistic taste and personal journey.
- Understanding his tattoos provides insight into the man behind the football phenomenon.
The Story Behind Neymar Jr’s First Tattoos
The story of Neymar Jr’s tattoos started with a visit to a shopping mall in 2010. It was during this visit that he saw a store manager’s tattoo, which was done by Adão Rosa at his studio, Nautica, located in the same mall.
The Shopping Mall Encounter in 2010
Neymar was impressed by the tattoo and decided to get one himself. He showed up at Adão Rosa’s studio on December 10, 2010, although the appointment was originally scheduled for someone else.
Rafaella and Nadine: His First Ink Tributes
Neymar got tattoo of his sister’s name, “Rafaella,” on his right outer wrist, and his mother’s name, “Nadine,” on the outside of his left wrist, both inked by Adão Rosa. These initial tattoos set the stage for his extensive tattoo collection, honoring the important women in his life.
Family-Themed Tattoos: A Testament to Love
With multiple tattoos honoring his family, Neymar Jr showcases his deep affection. Family holds a central place in his life, as seen in the numerous tributes across his body.
Portraits of His Mother and Sister
Neymar’s sister Rafaella has a detailed portrait on his right arm, created by Miguel Ángel Bohigues in June 2015. His mother, Nadine, received a black and grey portrait tattoo on his right inner arm in May 2017, done by Thieres Paim in Barcelona.
Tributes to His Son Davi Lucca
Following the birth of his son Davi Lucca on August 24, 2011, Neymar got his son’s name tattooed on his right forearm. Later, in May 2017, he added a black and grey portrait of Davi on his inner forearm, also done by Thieres Paim.
Neymar’s dad is also honored with a chest tattoo featuring motivational phrases they used before matches, with the word “Pai” (father) inked in pink beneath the text.
Faith and Spirituality in Neymar Jr Tattoos
Neymar Jr’s tattoos are not just decorative; they hold deep meanings related to his faith and spirituality. His body art is a reflection of his strong Christian beliefs.
Several of his tattoos are directly related to his faith. For instance, the phrase “Deus é fiel” (God is faithful) on his left wrist is a significant expression of his spirituality.
Biblical References and Scripture
One notable example is the cross with the inscription “Corinthians 9:24-27” on his left arm. This biblical passage emphasizes discipline and perseverance, qualities that are crucial in his athletic career.
“Deus é Fiel” and Other Religious Symbols
Neymar Jr has several other religious symbols, including praying hands on his left forearm and the word “Fé” (Faith) below it. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on his left leg is another example, connecting his faith with his Brazilian heritage.
| Tattoo Description | Location on Body | Year |
|---|---|---|
| “Deus é fiel” | Left Wrist | 2013 |
| Cross with “Corinthians 9:24-27” | Left Arm | 2013 |
| Praying Hands and “Fé” | Left Forearm | 2014 |
| Christ the Redeemer | Left Leg | 2016 |
Football-Inspired Designs: Honoring His Passion
Neymar Jr’s football-themed tattoos are more than just body art; they narrate his story of perseverance and success in the sport. With a career marked by incredible highs and challenging lows, Neymar’s tattoos reflect his journey and passion for football.
The Favela Boy with a Dream
One of his most meaningful football-inspired tattoos is on his left calf, depicting a young Neymar wearing a Brasil cap standing in front of a favela, dreaming about a house, playing football, and winning trophies. This poignant tattoo, created by Miguel Ángel Bohigues in December 2015, serves as a visual narrative of his rise from modest beginnings to global football superstar.
Champions League and Olympic Achievements
Neymar commemorated Brazil’s victory at the 2016 Rio Olympics with the Olympic rings tattooed on his left wrist, done by Adão Rosa at the Ramada Hotel in Rio de Janeiro. Another notable design features a football with a crown and Neymar’s silhouette in the background, symbolizing his reign in the sport, added to his collection in December 2014 by artist Filipe Genesi.
- Football has been Neymar’s lifelong passion, and several of his tattoos celebrate his journey from a humble beginning to international stardom in the sport.
- The calf tattoo is a powerful reminder of his roots and the dreams he had growing up in a favela.
- Following his achievements, Neymar got tattoos to commemorate his success, such as the Olympic rings and a football with a crown.
Symbolic Animals in Neymar’s Collection
Neymar Jr’s tattoos are not just decorative; they hold significant meanings, especially the animal symbols that adorn his body. These tattoos are more than just art; they represent various qualities and characteristics that Neymar Jr embodies or aspires to.
The Lion and Tiger: Symbols of Power
The lion and tiger are prominent in Neymar’s tattoo collection, symbolizing strength, courage, and leadership. A lion’s face on the back of his palm is particularly noteworthy, representing his indomitable spirit. Additionally, a fierce tiger tattoo on his left forearm, created by Miguel Bohígues in December 2014, complements the lion imagery, representing power and determination.
Eagles and Other Creatures
Other creatures in Neymar’s tattoo collection include an eagle on his chest, symbolizing freedom, vision, and achievement. A notable design featuring a knight riding a lion while holding a shield, accompanied by the biblical reference “Ephesians 6:11,” combines animal symbolism with religious significance. This diverse collection of animal tattoos reflects different aspects of Neymar’s personality and aspirations.
| Animal | Symbolism | Location on Body |
|---|---|---|
| Lion | Strength, Courage, Leadership | Back of Palm |
| Tiger | Power, Determination | Left Forearm |
| Eagle | Freedom, Vision, Achievement | Chest |
Friendship and Brotherhood Tattoos
Neymar Jr’s tattoos often symbolize his deep connections, with several dedicated to his closest friends and teammates, highlighting the significance of these relationships in his life.
The Puzzle Piece with Friends
In August 2017, Neymar and five of his best friends got matching puzzle piece tattoos with the word “Amigos” (Friends), symbolizing how each friend is an essential piece in Neymar’s life. Neymar’s piece, done by Albert Bonet at Blessed Art Tattoo Barcelona, includes the letter M.
Matching Designs with Teammates
Neymar shares another meaningful tattoo with his friend Cris Guedes – identical emojis on their calves created by Adão Rosa in July 2017. This tattoo showcases their heart connection and playful friendship. For more on brotherhood tattoos, visit brother tattoos.
Neymar’s tattoo on his left side, “Por Vontade de Deus Somos Irmãos” (By the will of God that we are brothers), represents the friendship he shares with his sister Rafaella and friend Joclécio Amancio. This phrase is a testament to the strong bond they share, with each having the tattoo on different parts of their bodies.
The Evolution of Neymar Jr Tattoos Over Time
Neymar Jr’s tattoos have undergone significant transformations over the years, reflecting his personal and professional journey. His tattoo collection has grown from simple designs to complex, interconnected art that tells the story of his life and career.
From Simple Words to Complex Designs
Neymar’s early tattoos were simple word tattoos, starting with two names on his wrists in 2010. Over time, these designs evolved to include portraits, symbols, and complex imagery that reflect his experiences and achievements.
Completing the Sleeve: A Tattoo Journey
By June 2015, Neymar had completed his left arm sleeve, featuring the expression “Stay strong” on his shoulder, complemented by roses and negative space stars in grey scales, with a rose around his elbow. Later, in December 2015, he got tattoo of his personal “NJR” symbol added to his left sleeve, creating a cohesive design.
| Year | Tattoo Description | Location on Body |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Simple name tattoos | Wrists |
| May 11, 2015 | Winged cross tattoo | Nape |
| June 2015 | Completed left arm sleeve | Left arm |
| December 7, 2015 | NJR symbol tattoo | Left sleeve |
Pop Culture References and Artistic Choices
Neymar Jr’s love for pop culture is evident in several of his tattoos. His body art is a reflection of his personality and interests beyond football.
Son Goku and Mickey Mouse Playing Football
Neymar Jr has a Son Goku tattoo, paying homage to the Dragon Ball character known for determination and fighting spirit. On his torso, a whimsical tattoo of Mickey Mouse playing football combines his love for the Disney character with his passion for the sport. These tattoos showcase Neymar’s playful personality.
Unique Artistic Styles and Elements
Neymar’s tattoos also feature unique artistic styles, such as the football tattoo on his right index finger, which replaced a tiny peace sign. Influenced by Rihanna, he got “Shhh…” inked on his left index finger, a design he shares with former teammate Dani Alves. These tattoos demonstrate Neymar’s eclectic taste and his willingness to express himself through various art forms.
The Tattoo Process: Artists Behind the Ink
Neymar Jr’s tattoos are not just random designs, but the result of careful planning and execution by skilled tattoo artists. His extensive collection is a testament to his collaboration with several talented individuals.
Adão Rosa and Thieres Paim: His Preferred Artists
Neymar Jr has primarily worked with Adão Rosa and Thieres Paim, two renowned tattoo artists. Adão Rosa’s studio, Nautica, was where Neymar got his first tattoos, including those of his mother’s and sister’s names. Thieres Paim has created detailed portrait tattoos, such as the images of his mother, sister, and son.
Long Sessions and Tattoo Techniques
For longer, more detailed sessions, some celebrities have used sedation techniques to endure extensive tattooing. Although this practice has been prohibited by Brazil’s Federal Council of Medicine (CFM), it’s worth noting that Neymar’s sister, Rafaella, was among those who underwent the procedure. To explore more about beautiful tattoos, visit beautiful tattoos.
- Adão Rosa and Thieres Paim are Neymar’s most frequently used tattoo artists.
- Other artists, like Miguel Ángel Bohigues and Samuel Rico, have also contributed to his tattoo collection.
Most Meaningful Neymar Jr Tattoos According to Fans
Neymar Jr’s extensive tattoo collection has fans admiring certain pieces more than others. Among his many tattoos, some hold special significance for fans worldwide.
Fan Favorites and Their Significance
Fans appreciate the tributes to his sister Rafaella, including her name on his wrist and a detailed portrait on his right arm. The crown tattoo on his left ring finger is also a fan favorite, symbolizing royalty and excellence.
The Stories That Resonate Most
The tattoo of his son Davi Lucca’s name resonates deeply with fans, showcasing Neymar’s devotion to fatherhood. The “Tudo Passa” phrase on his neck is admired for its profound meaning, bringing peace to Neymar’s life.
- The tributes to Rafaella are a testament to the love and bond between Neymar and his sister.
- The crown tattoo signifies Neymar’s status as a top footballer, with crown symbolizing excellence.
Conclusion
Neymar Jr’s tattoos are a visual representation of his life journey, from his early days in Brazil to his rise as a global football star. His tattoos reflect his deep connection to family, with the names of his mother and sister on his wrists and a portrait of his son Davi Lucca on his arm. Religious symbols and phrases, such as “Deus é Fiel,” demonstrate his faith. As Neymar continues to add to his collection, his body becomes an ever-evolving canvas that showcases his personal and professional growth, offering fans a glimpse into his inner world beyond the football pitch.