Vinicius Jr was in tears during his news conference as he detailed the racist abuse he has suffered while playing for Real Madrid in Spain

Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr has expressed his growing reluctance to continue playing football due to the persistent racist abuse he has faced, revealing that he feels “less and less” inclined to take the field amidst the onslaught of discriminatory behavior.

The 23-year-old, who plays for Real Madrid in Spain’s La Liga, disclosed during an emotionally charged press conference that he has been subjected to 10 reported incidents of racist abuse last season alone, as documented by La Liga prosecutors.

Despite the distressing treatment he has endured, Vinicius emphasized his resolve not to succumb to the pressures of racism, asserting that he will not be coerced into leaving Real Madrid or Spain.

He stated defiantly, “I will stay because that way the racists can continue to see my face more and more.”

Vinicius’s sentiments come ahead of Brazil’s international friendly against Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, which is part of an anti-racism campaign dubbed ‘One skin’.

The winger’s participation in the match underscores his commitment to combatting racial discrimination in football.

Reflecting on the challenges he faces, Vinicius admitted, “I just want to play football but it’s hard to move forward; I feel less and less like playing.”

His candid remarks shed light on the toll that racist abuse has taken on his mental and emotional well-being.

Real Madrid recently lodged a complaint against referee Juan Martinez Munuera for allegedly omitting instances of racist abuse directed at Vinicius during their match against Osasuna.

Despite Osasuna’s denial of any racist chants from their fans, the incident underscores the pervasive nature of racism in football.

Vinicius has been a target of racist behavior on multiple occasions, with incidents ranging from discriminatory chants to offensive gestures.

The winger’s determination to confront racism head-on serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against discrimination in the sport.