Vinicius Junior, a forward for Real Madrid, claims that criticism of his goal celebrations is motivated by “the happiness of a black Brazilian in Europe.”
During a televised interview with the 22-year-old, agent Pedro Bravo said, “In Spain, you have to respect rivals and stop playing the monkey,” which sparked charges of racism.
Bravo later tweeted an apology, stating he misinterpreted a metaphor.
“Accept it, respect it. In any case, I will not stop!,” added Vinicius.
The Brazil international added that he was far from the first player to dance in celebration, mentioning other stars who do so as well. The international has five goals in eight games for the European champions so far this season.
“Weeks ago, some people started to criticise my dancing. But the dancing is not mine alone,” Vinicius said.
“They belong to Ronaldinho, Neymar, [Lucas] Paqueta, [Antoine] Griezmann, Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha… Brazilian funk singers and samba dancers, Latin reggaeton singers, Black Americans.
“They are dances to celebrate the cultural diversity of the world.
“They say that happiness bothers. The happiness of a black Brazilian being successful in Europe bothers much more.
“But my will to win, my smile and the sparkle in my eyes are much bigger than that.”
Vinicius has received support from his team, nation, teammates, and opponents alike.
Neymar, a teammate for Brazil and a player for Paris St. Germain, shared a photo of the two dancing while representing their country.
“Dribble, dance and be you! Happy just the way you are. Go for it my boy, next goal we dance,” Neymar wrote.
Vai ter dança, drible, mas, acima de tudo, respeito. Na noite desta quinta-feira (15), nosso atleta @vinijr foi alvo de declarações racistas. A CBF se solidariza e reforça: #BailaViniJr. pic.twitter.com/Ri3EHqCkl5
— CBF Futebol (@CBF_Futebol) September 16, 2022