5 Crazy Things You Didn’t Know About Vinicius Jr.

Vinicius Jr. is a superstar at Real Madrid, known for his talent, speed, and incredible dribbling skills. But behind the footballer lies a rich history and some lesser-known facts. Here’s a glimpse into the life of the Brazilian winger:

From Poverty to the Top

Vinicius Jr.’s childhood was marked by financial struggles. Born in São Gonçalo, a poor suburb of Rio de Janeiro, he often played football in the streets with makeshift balls. Despite these hardships, his determination to become a professional footballer never wavered. With his father’s unwavering support, he joined Flamengo’s academy at the age of 10, where his talent began to shine.

A Hidden Artistic Passion

Few know about Vinicius Jr.’s love for art, particularly painting. Away from the football pitch, he finds solace in artistic creation. He uses his spare time to paint, not for recognition or sales, but as a personal escape from the pressures of top-level football. He sometimes gifts his creations to family and friends, showcasing a hidden side of himself. Painting allows him to unwind, reflect, and express himself creatively, maintaining a vital balance in his life.

Music and Dance in His Soul

Vinicius Jr.’s passion extends beyond football. Growing up in Rio’s vibrant culture, he has a deep love for music, particularly samba, a core element of Brazilian celebrations.

Dancing becomes a way for him to express himself and connect with his roots. He often shares videos of himself dancing, showcasing a relaxed and joyful side in contrast to his fierce playing style.

His collaborations with Brazilian artists in music videos solidify his love for music and his desire to support Brazilian culture.

Tech-Savvy Investor

Beyond football, Vinicius Jr. demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit with a keen interest in new technologies. He has discreetly invested in several Brazilian start-ups, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and video games. These fast-growing sectors hold his attention because he believes in their potential to shape the future.

He sees technology as a way to support innovation while diversifying his income streams. Despite his involvement, he prefers to keep a low profile and let the startups shine. Some projects aim to revolutionize video games, a passion Vinicius has held since childhood, while others focus on AI, a technology he sees as crucial for the future.

Giving Back to His Community

Despite his international success, Vinicius Jr. never forgets his roots. In 2020, he established the Instituto Vini Jr. foundation to support underprivileged children’s education in Brazil. The foundation funds school programs, sports activities, and vocational training, emphasizing the importance of education and development for young people.

He believes it’s the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and offering opportunities to those in need. The foundation offers educational workshops, tutoring, and sports programs, encouraging young people to develop skills and self-confidence. He actively participates in foundation activities and regularly visits children, motivating them through events.

A Project with Lasting Impact

Vinicius Jr.’s commitment extends beyond his foundation. He recently announced an ambitious project to transform a disused public school in São Gonçalo into a major social center. This €3 million private investment aims to revitalize a place significant to the community.

Located in his childhood neighborhood, the center will offer free educational, sporting, and cultural activities, impacting thousands of young people and families. For Vinicius Jr., this project is more than just an investment; it’s a way to give back to his community and create a lasting legacy. He envisions the center as a beacon of hope and opportunity for future generations.

Beyond the Football Pitch

While Vinicius Jr.’s dazzling skills and technique are widely recognized, his dedication to a tailor-made training program remains largely unknown. In addition to team sessions, he works with a personal coach to improve his physical and mental stamina. These extra efforts significantly contribute to his impressive performances.

His inspiring career path, personal commitments, and work ethic make him an emblematic figure in sport. Knowing these less-visible aspects of his life provides a deeper understanding of why he has become one of the biggest stars in world football today.