Vinicius Jnr is the favourite to win this year’s Ballon d’Or for plenty of reasons. Twenty-three goals and 11 assists in all competitions, another La Liga title and a Champions League final to come this weekend. Not bad, eh?
It’s no surprise that Gatorade have moved to make him their new ambassador, signing the 23-year-old on a long-term contract ahead of Real Madrid’s huge clash with Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday evening.
Vinicius flaunts the skills that have made him one of the world’s best footballers in a new Gatorade film, joining a stellar squad of ambassadors including Tottenham ace Son Heung-min, NBA legend Jayson Tatum and tennis stars Coco Gauff and Serena Williams.
Williams, despite playing a different sport, remains an inspiration for Vinicius, but who else does he look up to away from football? What’s his favourite celebration? And what made him get his amazing back tattoo?
The Brazilian speaks to GOAL to answer those questions and tell us more about the global grassroots Gatorade 5v5 tournament, which precedes the Champions League final in London.
Sporting inspirations
GOAL: Who would be the top three stars from sports outside of football that you take inspiration from and why?
Vinicius: I partnered with Gatorade because I know that they have helped some of the best athletes in the world like Usain Bolt and Serena Williams with their hydration requirements, which is something that is essential for any athlete.
In terms of three of my favourite athletes outside of football, I would pick: LeBron James, Lewis Hamilton and Michael Jordan. These three are more than athletes. They are icons.
They changes the history of sport. But they didn’t limit themselves to their sports performance. Their impact goes far beyond that. And that’s also how I want to be remembered: much more than just a great football player.
Celebrations and that tattoo
GOAL: What would be your top three all-time favourite celebrations and why?
Vinicius: Without a doubt Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuuu. I’d say it is the most iconic celebration in football.But I also like the dance moves from NFL players and celebrations with the fans.
GOAL: Tell us a bit more about your incredible back tattoo – what made you get Pele, Kobe Bryant, Muhammad Ali and more on your skin.
Vinicius: They are some of the greatest references and inspirations of my life. Incredible athletes, and magnificent people. The face of my dad is also on that back tattoo, who’s my biggest idol.
Back in Brazil
GOAL: Why do you think Brazil produces so many brilliant footballers? How important was grassroots football to you when you were growing up and what role does it play for the youth of today?
Vinicius: I’m sure it’s related to Brazilian culture and the importance of football for our society. Since we’re little kids we spend most of our free time playing on the streets, which is the best way to improve the basics of the game and to develop creativity.
On the streets there are not many rules, not any tactics… it’s just you, the ball and the opponent and I think that provides you lots of freedom to come up with creative solutions for every single situation of the game. And that’s why the Brazilian player is so technical and creative. It’s almost in our DNA.
Gatorade 5v5 tournament
GOAL: What sort of opportunity can the Gatorade 5v5 tournament provide for aspiring footballers in Brazil?
Vinicius: I think it’s a great opportunity for inexperienced players to get exposure and to show the best of their talent. I know coaches and scouts attend the tournament, so it can really be a fantastic platform for some players to take their game to a different level.
I think the Gatorade 5v5 tournament is all about that [being creative]… bringing that essence from Brazilian street football to a more competitive space. It’s great to see grassroots taken more seriously and I hope a lot of new young people make the most of this fantastic opportunity.
