Most football stars have tattoos on different parts of their bodies. Some of them, like new Chelsea signing Raheem Sterling, got tattoos for very unique reasons.
However, for five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, getting a tattoo is not an option. The Portuguese forward has never tattooed any part of his body, not because he lacks the funds to do so, but for one of the most inspiring reasons - bone marrow and blood donation.
Most health-related organizations including the Red Cross do not allow individuals with tattoos to donate blood and plasma for several months after getting it because blood cells are usually affected by the procedure.
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Ronaldo is one of the few players who donates blood regularly. The former Real Madrid striker once donated bone marrow and saved the life of a kid who was suffering from Leukemia.
Ronaldo, who frequently uses his social media accounts including Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, to encourage his fans to donate blood is one of the good will ambassadors of Be The 1 organization that creates awareness on the essence of blood donation.
In one of his recent interviews, Ronaldo explained why he persuades people to donate blood.
"That's why I am enthusiastic, to the importance of blood donation and to encourage people around the world to become lifelong blood donors and help save lives,” Ronaldo told Sports Bible.
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"We can all make a difference by donating blood. Each donation can benefit up to three people in emergency situations and for long-term medical treatments.”
Some of the football stars, current and former, who are popular for their tattoos include former Rome midfielder Nadja Nainggolan, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Roberto Firmino, and Brazilian shot stopper, Ederson Santana Moraes.
Ronaldo’s rivals Lionel Messi, and Neymar Jr also have several tattoos on their bodies. Some of Messi’s tattoos are dedicated to his family while others represent his religion and passion for the beautiful game.
African duo of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, Kylian Mbappe, Paul Pogba and no nonsense French midfielder, N’golo Kante, have not tattooed their bodies since their Muslim religion does not allow it.
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