Neymar hits back at alcoholism and late-night gaming accusations

Neymar is fouled by Alisson Cassiano during his Santos debut match against Botafogo on Feb. 5, 2025. Photo by AP

The controversy began earlier this week when journalist Rodolfo Gomes posted a video on his channel Futeboteco, claiming Neymar was "hooked on whisky with energy drinks, smokes shisha, and only goes to bed at 4-5 a.m. in the morning after gaming sessions," Daily Mail reported.

Gomes also suggested that Neymar's habits interfered with team preparations, prompting new Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda to consider shifting training sessions earlier to "indirectly expose" the issue.

The claims quickly circulated in Brazilian media, drawing public criticism. Neymar's management company, NR Sports, responded: "All civil and criminal legal measures are being taken to hold those involved accountable."

Neymar himself addressed the allegations on Instagram by posting a photo of an energy drink with the caption: "ADDICTED to Red Bull. That one's great," followed by a winking emoji, mocking the claims.

Currently sidelined after a thigh muscle tear sustained in training on Sept. 18, Neymar is expected to remain out of action until November. The injury adds to a long list of physical setbacks throughout his career, including a broken foot, a torn ankle ligament at PSG, a knee injury at Al Hilal and three muscle injuries since returning to Santos.

Neymar's return has not been rosy. Following a 0-6 loss to Vasco da Gama in August, angry supporters blocked the team bus, forcing Neymar and his teammates to face criticism.

"I’m ashamed," Neymar said, as quoted by ESPN Brazil. "The fans have every right to protest, obviously without using violence... but if they want to curse and insult, they're in their right. I've never experienced this in my life. Unfortunately, it happened. The tears were from anger, from everything."

Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances. He has been absent from international duty since October 2023, following a severe ligament injury that required a year-long recovery.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar's recall to the national team will depend on his fitness.

"A national team needs to have the most talented players. It is obvious, right? But a talented player also needs to be physically fit," Ancelotti told L'Equipe. "He needs to be 100%, not 80%. He is undoubtedly the most talented Brazilian player. But I want him to be in perfect shape so he can play. Neymar can participate in the World Cup if he is physically fit. From a technical standpoint, there is no debate."