Neymar Jr.’s marketing team, representing the 33-year-old Santos forward, issued an official statement on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in São Paulo, to counter claims by journalist Rodolfo Gomes about the player’s alleged addictions. The accusations emerged in a video where the journalist linked the athlete to excessive whiskey consumption mixed with energy drinks and hookah use. Legal action aims to hold the author accountable for information deemed false.
Gomes, in a live broadcast, claimed to rely on sources close to Santos’ staff, stating Neymar sleeps only between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., hindering his recovery from a right thigh rectus femoris muscle injury.
The injury occurred in August 2025 during training, requiring an estimated recovery period of up to 12 weeks, per standard medical protocols for such injuries.
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Rodolfo Gomes’ claims detail alleged routine
Journalist Rodolfo Gomes, known for analyses on the Futeboteco channel, presented a conversation with an anonymous source tied to the São Paulo club. He reported that Santos’ training sessions, scheduled for 10 a.m., were adjusted to accommodate the player’s irregular sleep schedule.
Gomes noted teammates requested earlier morning sessions, but the club’s management avoided direct conflicts with Neymar.
The broadcast aired on Wednesday, September 24, gaining traction across sports portals.
Neymar’s sarcastic social media response
Neymar used his Instagram profile to address the accusations, posting a photo holding a Red Bull can. The caption “Addicted to Red Bull, this one’s too good” was seen as a jab at the video’s claims.
The post garnered thousands of interactions within hours, with fans split between support and questions about his physical condition.
The post appeared on the afternoon of September 25, following the official statement.
Legal measures taken by NR Sports
NR Sports, managing Neymar’s career, labeled the claims as reckless and defamatory in a social media statement. Actions include criminal charges for defamation and civil suits for moral damages.
- Unverified claims from unidentified sources pose risks to professional reputation.
- Spreading unverified content undermines credible sports journalism.
- Damage to the athlete’s image affects commercial endorsements and partnerships.
The statement emphasizes that fake news fuels widespread misinformation.
The company commits to transparency regarding the player’s recovery updates.
Journalist’s stance amid controversy
Rodolfo Gomes sent a press statement defending his reporting as journalistic investigation. He invoked constitutional rights to freedom of expression and thought.
Gomes upheld the veracity of his information and is preparing a legal defense.
The journalist, based in São Paulo, has a following for Brazilian football analyses.
Neymar’s injury history and Santos return
Neymar returned to Santos in June 2025 after a stint with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia under a high-value contract. The current injury halted a run of four Brasileirão matches.
Club doctors monitor weekly progress, with imaging exams scheduled for October.
- Right rectus femoris injury limits explosive movements for 8 to 12 weeks.
- Daily physiotherapy includes muscle strengthening and joint mobility.
- Optimistic prognosis depends on strict protocol adherence.
Coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda adjusts tactics without the number 10, prioritizing an offensive midfield.
Social media and sports media reactions
Fans and influencers debated the issue on digital platforms since the video’s release. Outlets like UOL and Globo Esporte covered the episode, focusing on tensions between press and athletes.
NR Sports’ statement was shared over 50,000 times in hours.
The incident underscores ethical standards in sensitive coverage of athletes’ personal lives.
Neymar’s recent career context
The player has 15 appearances for Santos in 2025, scoring three goals and providing two assists before the injury. His return to Brazil raised expectations for the team’s relegation fight.
Global brand endorsement contracts remain active despite recurring injuries.
At 33, Neymar holds the Brazilian national team’s scoring record with 79 goals.
