As soon as Lionel Messi went for broke on his own body art, we knew that we’d reached peak tattoo in the world of soccer. The juxtaposition between Messi’s wholesome demeanor and his body modification might’ve been keenly felt by your grandmother, who now firmly believes that Messi lives on the edge of society, but tattoos are obviously less of a form of deviance and more of an accepted form of expression in today’s world.
These 20 somethings are obviously happy to express themselves outside the pitch and, with loads of expendable cash to pay for high-end artists and renderings, the results of their expression are typically very beautiful.
Here are some of the more famous tattoos in the world of soccer.
Lionel Messi's ink.
Lionel Messi's tattoos include a portrait of his mother on his back, a tribute to his son Thiago and a sleeve featuring a rose window that works as a tribute to Barcelona.
David Beckham is the godfather of tatts.
David Beckham has over 40 tattoos covering a large part of his body. Both of his arms are covered, the art being provided by longtime artist Louis Malloy.
Sydney Leroux is unmistakable.
USWNT star Sydney Leroux's explanation for her tattoos: they're all for her mother.
Radja Nainggolan has an impressive collection.
Belgian midfielder Radja Nainggolan immediately stands out because of his neck rose tattoo. He also has two large wings depicted on his back as a tribute to his mother.
American Natasha Kai is a gold medalist.
33-year-old American forward Natasha Kai has over 60 tattoos. She also featured in ESPN The Magazine's "Body Issue".
Gregory van der Wiel is an inspiration.
Gregory van der Wiel's neck pharaoh tattoo is simply unreal.
Jermaine Jones is a true American hero.
Oh, would you look at that?
