Neymar reflects on emotional strain and decision to seek psychological support

A difficult season takes a toll

For much of his career, Neymar has been accustomed to global attention, both on and off the field. As one of the most recognizable players in modern football, he has lived with a level of scrutiny few athletes experience. But this season, the pressure intensified in ways that caught him off guard.

Speaking in an interview with the sports outlet GetV, the 32 year old forward explained that a wave of criticism following a match against Flamengo became overwhelming. For readers less familiar with South American football, Flamengo is one of Brazil's most widely supported clubs, and matches involving them often generate intense public reactions.

“After the match against Flamengo, I received way too many criticisms. When it comes to me, people always go a little overboard with the limits…,” he told GetV.

When resilience was no longer enough

Neymar said the response to that match pushed him into new emotional territory. Although he is used to harsh commentary from fans and commentators, this time he felt unable to recover on his own.

Read also: Arsenal stumble, and the chase is on

“And this time, it was the first time I asked for help after my emotional state hit zero... I no longer had the strength to get back up on my own. I asked for help,” he said.

He described leaning heavily on the people closest to him, crediting his club staff and personal support network for helping him regain stability.

“My coach, my teammates, my family… were extremely important in that moment because they helped me get back on my level. I thank them all, because if it weren’t for them, I don’t think I would have had the strength to come back.”

A different kind of therapy

Neymar noted that he had attended therapy in the past, though never for reasons related to emotional distress. Earlier sessions, he said, were motivated by self development rather than crisis.

Read also: Barcelona weighs support and squad needs as Araujo addresses anxiety issues

“I had already done therapy long time ago but it wasn’t because I was doing badly, was just because I wanted self help, to help myself even more. But this time was the first time my emotional state truly hit zero,” he said.

He added that he generally considers himself emotionally strong, even while dealing with frequent personal attacks online and in the press.
“I confess that I’m very strong emotionally, you know… I can take a lot of criticism and attacks, but this time I just couldn’t take it anymore.”

A broader conversation emerging in sports

Neymar's comments come at a time when high profile athletes across several sports have spoken publicly about mental health, including Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka and Kevin Love. Their openness has gradually shifted public attitudes, encouraging fans to consider the psychological demands placed on elite performers.

Mental health professionals note that athletes often face a combination of relentless schedules, national expectations and intense media coverage, creating conditions in which burnout becomes more likely. Neymar's decision to speak publicly adds another prominent voice to that conversation.

Read also: FIFA announces new match rule for the 2026 World Cup

Read also: AC Milan explore veteran options as talks over Lewandowski resurface