Brazilian forward Neymar made his long-awaited return to action for Al-Hilal after spending more than a year on the sidelines due to a debilitating knee injury. The 32-year-old came off the bench, replacing Nasser Al Dawsari, in the 77th minute of his team's 5-4 victory over Al-Ain in the Asian Champions League.
The Brazilian star made an immediate impact, linking up with former Fulham man Aleksander Mitrovic but he ended up missing the target. The comeback of Neymar will surely add extra zing to the Saudi Pro League which also boasts stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mane.
Neymar suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee during a World Cup qualifier in October 2023, for which he underwent surgery the following month. Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading goal scorer, and joined Al-Hilal last year, at an astounding fee of $100 million. Prior to his injury, Neymar had made just five appearances for Al-Hilal.
"I feel good. It's so hard," Neymar explained. "I have a great team. I'm so happy to be back." Brazil's Football Confederation (CBF) also penned a special message for their greatest striker of this decade, wishing him good luck for the new journey. Neymar is the representation of the magic of Brazil. Fans from all over the planet proudly wear shirts of the Brazilian National Team, Santos, PSG, Barcelona and Al-Hilal with the number 10 and Neymar's name on the back.
"The CBF celebrates and congratulates Neymar, one of the greatest players in the history of world football, on his return to the pitch," read the statement.
Neymar's career has been plagued by injuries, but he's still ranked among the richest footballers of all time. When not busy with football, Neymar turns his attention to his party-animal spirit, always seen on vacation at exotic locations. We look at how Neymar spent his time away from the football.
Here’s What Neymar Was Doing During Year-Long Break
Meeting Carlos Alcaraz
Neymar is a big fan of the Spanish tennis sensation, Carlos Alcaraz. When Alcaraz was in Saudi Arabia for the Six Kings Slam last week, he was greeted by the Brazilian footballer.
Add here: All you need to know about Six Kings Slam
Playing Pickleball
Neymar tried his luck in what is arguably the newest and biggest fad in the town: pickleball. The former Barca star seemed to have enjoyed the sport. His involvement is surely going to help pickleball in gaining popularity.
Family Time
Brazilian football star Neymar is the father of three children: a son named Dave Lucca with his ex-partner Carolina Dantas, a daughter with Bruna Biancardi, and another daughter with his current partner Amanda Kimberlly. Neymar took advantage of his time away from the pitch to focus on caring for his children.
Road to Recovery
Neymar would make sure to share his recovery process with a huge swathe of followers on social media platforms like Instagram and X. Here he is seen sweating out and getting fit a gym in Brazil as he preps for his return.
Launching New Boot
PUMA has unveiled the NJR signature BNA (Brazilian Natural Ability) pack, honouring Neymar's legacy as one of the most entertaining players in history. The new look for the Future 7 pays tribute to his roots and unique style of play.
Rooting For Jimmy Buttler
Neymar never misses a chance to hang out with Jimmy Buttler, the NBA stalwart who plies his trade for Miami Heat. Neymar made sure to broadcast his allegiance to Buttler's team by flaunting a jersey with the hooper's face on it.
Polishing his golfing skills
While his injury restricted him to being away from the football pitch, Neymar shifted his attention to golf. And when it comes to high-paying athletes like Neymar, many have displayed a love for this sort like no other.
