Houston, June 29 -- Brazil and Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr in an interview with Brazilian broadcaster Globo TV opened up on his personal journey, his deep emotional bond with his grandmother, and his continued fight against racism in football, while reflecting on his World Cup dream and career milestones.

Vinicius Jr spoke at length about the role his grandmother played in shaping his early life, calling her one of the most important influences in his upbringing.

"My grandmother is a very important person in my life. I lived with her until I was 16 years old. When you started speaking, I already knew it was her," he told Globo TV.

He recalled growing up in a small home with his family and the deep support system his grandmother provid...