How Many Tattoos Does Lionel Messi Have? Meaning Behind His Tattoos Revealed

Once fans dig into the lives of their favorite soccer stars, they are in for a few surprises. The hidden surprises may take the fans beyond the sporting field and know more about the soccer star. Lionel Messi can be a significant example of this. His incredible soccer skills have earned him an enormous name in the field.

Apart from his skills, records, and trophies, what catches the eye of any fan is his love for tattoos. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner boasts around 18 tattoos on his body. Moreover, he doesn’t have any random inkings over his body, as every tattoo has its unique story. What do they symbolize? What inspires him to have intricate artwork over his body?

Lionel Messi and his unique tattoos

Messi is ready to embark on his new journey with MLS club Inter Miami after announcing his departure from PSG. La Pulga uses his body as a canvas to express his emotions. From his love for his family to the club, tattoos reflect the very essence of his being. So, let’s explore the meanings behind each tattoo.

Lotus Flower: We can find it on the right arm of the Argentine. The flower suggests rebirth. It shows the journey of the Rosario native from having nothing to reaching new heights in soccer.

Crown: This is one of the tattoos he shares with his partner, Antonela Roccuzzo. It is present on his right arm and reaffirms the commitment to his partner.

Wedding date: Apart from the crown, the couple also shares their wedding date. They inked it in the Roman numerals (XXX-VI-XVII) on their ring fingers.

Antonela’s Eyes and Lips: When we look at his right bicep, we see eyes inked, whereas lips are at the bottom left hip. 

The map of South America and Europe: Lionel Messi also dons a cartographic map of South America and Europe on his arm. However, the exact meaning is known. 

Portrait of his mother: The former PSG superstar shows his love to his family. He pays tribute to his mother, Celia Maria Cuccittini, with her portrait on his back.

Handprints of Thiago with the name: Messi tattooed Thiago’s handprints after his birth. And to avoid confusion, he inked Thiago’s name in the middle.

Birthdates: He inked the birthdates of Antonela, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro at the bottom of his right legs.

Mateo: His second son’s name can be seen on the right sleeves of his upper arm beside Jesus’ tattoo.

The Number 10: The iconic number he donned for the majority part of his career sits on the left leg.

Soccer Tattoo: A soccer ball sits at the top of his left calf. And the reason is simple, it’s soccer that has given him everything in his life.

FC Barcelona Emblem: He paid tribute to his former club where he went from being a child to achieving new heights in soccer.

The Rosary: One can see a string of beads on his left forearm. It is a rosary, a tribute to his hometown Rosario.

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Giant Clock and Timepiece Cogs: He inked a clock on his right arm. Beneath the clock, there are timepiece cogs. It reminds him of some crucial moments in life and how time flies. 

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Let us know your thoughts on the tattoos inked by Messi. What’s your favorite?