The Messi tattoo is one emblazoned on Lionel Messi (born on June 24, 1987), who is currently viewed as a “demi-god” in Argentina following his spectacular performances which propelled the football-crazy country to win the FIFA World Cup in 2022. The captain of Argentina’s national team and forward for Ligue 1 club, Paris Saint-Germain, is widely recognised as one of the greatest players of all time.
Messi and records are like symbiotic twins. He has won a record seven Ballon d’Or trophies, seven FIFA Best Player awards and six European Golden Shoes awards. Whether playing for Barcelona, PSG or Argentina, Messi has reached the pinnacle of football, a height that many footballers can only dream about.
It is these achievements that have partly inspired the Argentine to get what is known as the Messi tattoo. These tattoos are imprinted across his body and they celebrate his football career, achievements and the most important element of life dear to him – his family.
Messi tattoos and their locations
Messi, The Best FIFA Men’s Player of 2022, has several tattoos on his body. Although not all stand out, they all have their significance and purpose, which will be looked at, including their locations.
Tribute to his mother (Left side of the back)
Messi has a tattoo on his left shoulder that says “Mama” in cursive. This is a tribute to his mother, Celia, who has been a constant source of support for him throughout his life. He has a close relationship with his mother and believes she has been instrumental in helping him accomplish his objectives.
It is understandable why Messi decides to have his mother’s portrait painted upon his body first. Indeed, he is showing his mother his love and respect by doing this.
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Jesus tattoo (Right arm)
This is his commitment to his religion, especially his reverence for Jesus Christ, worshipped by Christians as the Son of God. Messi was reared in a Catholic home; 92 per cent of Argentines reportedly identify as Catholics. Thus it comes as no surprise that Messi is a Catholic.
He was said to have declared that if Argentina were to win the 2018 FIFA World Cup, he would walk the approximately 31-mile distance from his residence in Rosario to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of San Nicolas as a sign of celebration. This would essentially be a pilgrimage for him.
Child’s hands (Left calf)
This tattoo might represent his first son’s hands. On November 2, 2012, Messi’s first son, Thiago, was born. On that day, he did not attend training
Therefore, it might be the happiness of first-time fatherhood that is seen on the calf of one of the greatest football players in history.
Thiago (Left calf)
This is in honour of his first son, Thiago.
Football (Left leg)
The tattoo is obvious: it displays his love of football. He continues to be heralded as one the greatest to play the game. Messi developed this enthusiasm early on; as a youngster, he frequently played football with his brothers and cousins.
Lotus (Right arm)
Messi has a tattoo of a lotus on his right arm. The purpose behind the tattoo is not clear. The lotus, however, symbolises rebirth, a new beginning, purity, and enlightenment.
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A King’s Crown (Right arm)
On Messi’s right arm, directly beneath the tattoo of Jesus Christ, is a tattoo of a crown. Because his wife, Antonella, also has a queen tattoo on her right arm, it is said that he got this tattoo specifically for her.
So, perhaps, he is a king, and his wife a queen
Mateo (Right arm)
This tattoo was drawn in honour of his second son, Mateo.
Antonella’s eye (Right arm)
This clearly shows Messi’s affection for his wife. Messi and Antonella Roccuzzo are childhood sweethearts who have been together for many years. They first met when they were just five years old in their hometown of Rosario, Argentina, and have been inseparable ever since.
Messi and Antonella started dating in 2008 and got engaged on June 30, 2017. They tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Rosario on June 30, 2017, which was attended by many of Messi’s teammates at his then-club Barcelona; his close friends, as well as other celebrities.
The couple has three children together: Thiago, born in 2012; Mateo, born in 2015; and Ciro, born in 2018. Messi often shares pictures and videos of his family on social media, and he has spoken publicly about how much he loves his wife and children.
Antonella has been a source of support and stability for Messi throughout his career, and the couple has been through many ups and downs together. They continue to be one of the most beloved couples in the world of sports.
Number 10 (left leg)
Messi has a tattoo of the number 10 on his left arm. He has always worn this iconic number for his country, Argentina, and during his time in Barcelona.
Clock gears (Right Forearm)
Between the enormous clock on Messi’s forearm and his wrist, there are cogs. To make the scenario more realistic, two of them appear to be hiding behind the clock, which gives the entire image a three-dimensional appearance.
Dreamcatcher tattoo (Left calf)
Messi has a tattoo of a dreamcatcher on his left calf. This tattoo is said to represent his belief in the power of dreams and his desire to catch them and make them a reality.
These are just some of the tattoos that Messi has. Messi’s tattoos are a reflection of his life, his beliefs, and his passions. From his tribute to his mother and his love for his children to his passion for soccer and his faith in Jesus Christ, each tattoo has a special meaning to him.
Messi’s tattoos not only represent his values but also showcase his artistic side. They have become a part of his brand and have inspired many of his fans worldwide.
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