Lionel Messi's ink has become one of the most recognizable sights in soccer, and it may draw extra attention again on Tuesday, June 16, when Argentina opens its World Cup title defense against Algeria at Kansas City Stadium. The Argentine star's decorated left leg sleeve and heavily tattooed right arm are hard to miss whenever he steps onto the pitch.
Lionel Messi's leg tattoos
On Messi's lower left leg, a large area of dark black ink reportedly serves as a cover up for earlier pieces, including a sword and angel wings. That partial black leg sleeve includes a Five of Cups playing card, a soccer ball, and the number 10, which he has worn since 2008 in club play and for Argentina. Handprints of his oldest child, Thiago, also appear on the left leg.
Above his right ankle on the lower right leg, Messi has all three of his children's names, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, along with their birthdates.
Lionel Messi's right arm tattoos
Messi's right arm sleeve begins at the top of his shoulder with an image of Jesus Christ wearing a crown of thorns, described as a nod to his faith. On the inside of his right bicep, he has an eye tattoo that is largely believed to be a tribute to his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, whom he married in 2017. Roccuzzo also has an eye tattoo on the inside of her right arm.
Just over his elbow sits a rose window, potentially inspired by Santa Maria del Pi, a church in Barcelona, flanked by several flowers and rosary beads. The sleeve also includes a classic style pocket watch, which may serve as a reminder that time can be fleeting.
Lionel Messi's back tattoo
On his back, Messi has a portrait tribute to his mother, Celia, sitting on his left shoulder blade.
Leo is a divine son, a beautiful brother, a better father and an incredible husband,
Messi's mother said that in 2018.
