Lasting Legacy of Neymar: A Look at the Influence on History

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Neymar across different fields.

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, known as Neymar, is a Brazilian professional footballer renowned for his exceptional skills as a left winger, attacking midfielder, or forward. He currently plays for Santos and captains the Brazil national team. Widely regarded as one of the best players ever, Neymar is celebrated for his flair, dribbling prowess, playmaking abilities, and clinical finishing. He holds the distinction of being Brazil's all-time top goalscorer.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1963: Santos' Copa Libertadores Triumph

In 1963, Santos won their first Copa Libertadores. This fact is mentioned in the context of Santos winning another Copa Libertadores title in 2011, highlighting the historical significance.

February 2013: Neymar on the cover of Time magazine

In February 2013, Neymar appeared on the cover of Time magazine, the first Brazilian athlete to do so.

March 2015: Neymar's social media ranking

In March 2015, Neymar had the fourth-highest social media rank in the world among sportspeople, behind Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and David Beckham.

April 2017: Neymar included in Time 100 list

In April 2017, Neymar was included in the Time 100, Time magazine's list of the most influential people in the world.

2017: Wasted the best years of his career

James Westwood of Goal wrote that in 2017 Neymar had "the world at his feet" playing for Barcelona, throwing away his chance to join Pelé and Messi as a "true legend of the game" by joining PSG.

2019: Appearing in The Making Of series

In 2019, Neymar appeared in The Making Of series in collaboration with DAZN. This documentary series revisits significant games that helped define football's modern icons. Neymar recounted his performance for Santos against Flamengo in 2011, where he scored the FIFA Puskás Award for Goal of the Year. He was also featured in the film Neymar and the Line of King, which covers his journey to becoming one of Brazil's top players in 2019.

2023: Neymar dubbed the 'Prince who never became King'

In 2023, after Neymar's move to Saudi Arabia, media outlets dubbed him the 'Prince who never became King', citing his move to PSG as a reason for not becoming a "true legend of the game".