Lionel Messi isn’t just a football legend, he is a man of deep emotion, values, and incredible loyalty. And fans around the world know him for his magical left foot and unbelievable goals, many don’t realize that his tattoos tell a fascinating story. Each one of Messi’s tattoos is personal, symbolic, and a tribute to the most important parts of his life, family, faith, roots, and football. In this blog post, we’ll explore the meaning behind Lionel Messi tattoos, why he got them, and how they reflect his personality off the pitch.
1. A Tribute to His Mother – The Beginning of His Tattoo Journey
Lionel Messi’s first tattoo was a portrait of his beloved mother, Celia, on his back (left shoulder blade). She played a crucial role in his childhood, supporting his dreams and helping him overcome early health challenges, including a growth hormone deficiency.
This tattoo is a symbol of gratitude and love, a permanent reminder of the woman who helped make his dreams come true.
2. Fatherhood Celebrated – Thiago’s Handprints and Name
Messi’s journey as a father began with his son Thiago. To celebrate this life-changing moment, he tattooed Thiago’s handprints on his left calf. Later, he added Thiago’s name with a heart.
This Lionel Messi tattoos shows Messi’s softer side—a loving father who values family above everything else.
3. His Faith – The Portrait of Jesus
Messi is a devout Catholic, and his right arm features a detailed portrait of Jesus Christ wearing a crown of thorns. This religious tattoo reflects Messi’s faith, spiritual strength, and humility—qualities that define him both on and off the field.
4. The Lotus Flower – Rising From Humble Beginnings
Also on his right arm is a lotus flower, a symbol of growth, purity, and rising from adversity. Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina, in modest conditions and faced many obstacles before reaching the top of world football.
The lotus tattoo perfectly reflects his journey—from a small boy in Rosario to a global superstar.
5. Rosario in Ink: The Rosary Tattoo
Messi pays tribute to his hometown with a cleverly designed rosary tattoo on his right arm. The rosary beads form the shape of Rosario, with landmarks and symbols from his childhood.
It’s a beautiful way to stay connected to his roots, no matter where in the world he plays.
6. A Nod to Barcelona: Sagrada Familia Rose Window
Messi spent over two decades in Barcelona, and the club shaped his career. On his elbow, he has a rose window design inspired by the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona.
This tattoo is a nod to the city that became his second home and to the club where he created history.
7. A Love Story in Ink: Antonella’s Eye and Lips
Messi and his wife Antonella Roccuzzo have been together since childhood. He has her eye tattooed on his right arm, symbolizing her watching over him, and red lips on his lower abdomen representing a kiss from her.
These tattoos are intimate, romantic, and a tribute to their enduring love story.
8. Matching King and Queen Crowns
Messi and Antonella also have matching tattoos of a king and queen crown. His king crown symbolizes his role in their relationship, and hers complements it. These tattoos show unity, respect, and mutual admiration.
9. Clocks and Timepieces: Symbolizing Time and Legacy
On his right forearm, Messi has a tattoo of a clock surrounded by timepiece gears. This design might symbolize the passage of time, legacy, and the importance of cherishing every moment.
As his career continues, this tattoo serves as a reminder of how precious time really is.
10. Number 10 and Football Tattoo: The Heart of His Career
The number 10 is legendary in football, and Messi has made it iconic. Tattooed on his left leg alongside a football, it symbolizes his role in the game and his legacy as one of the greatest players to wear the number 10 jersey.
Whether at FC Barcelona, PSG, Inter Miami, or the Argentina national team, the number 10 belongs to Messi.
11. His Sons’ Birthdates: Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro
Messi has tattooed the birthdates of all three of his sons, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro on his leg. These tattoos represent his deep bond with his children and his identity as a father first, footballer second.
12. Evolution in Ink: Covering the Dagger Tattoo
Earlier in his tattoo journey, Messi had a dagger with wings and a rose motif on his left leg. Over time, he chose to cover it up with black ink and a more cohesive design that includes the number 10, the football, and his sons’ names.
This change reflects how people evolve over time priorities shift, and so does the story you want to tell through your ink.
Final Thoughts: Lionel Messi Tattoos Tell a Story
Lionel Mess, tattoos are more than just body art, they’re a deeply personal collection of memories, values, and milestones. From honoring his mother and his children to showcasing his faith and football journey, each tattoo holds meaning.
In a world where fame often overshadows authenticity, Lionel Messi tattoos remind us of his grounded nature. They tell us that no matter how many goals he scores or trophies he lifts, he remains a devoted son, husband, father, and humble champion.
If you’ve ever looked at Messi and admired his greatness, now you know his greatness isn’t just in his game. It’s in his story, written in ink.