Neymar: The World Cup's most theatrical player - in pictures

He may be incredibly talented, but the Brazilian's behaviour has not gone down well during this tournament

Neymar of Brazil reacts on the pitch against Mexico in Samara, Russia, 02 July 2018. EPA

Neymar (bottom) of Brazil reacts next to his coach Tite (back centre) during the FIFA World Cup 2018 round of 16 match between Brazil and Mexico in Samara, Russia, 02 July 2018. EPA

Mexico's Edson Alvarez in action with Brazil's Neymar. David Gray / Reuters

Neymar is tackled by Switzerland's Valon Behrami. Jason Cairnduff / Reuters

Neymar is tackled by Costa Rica's Cristian Gamboa. Alastair Grant / AP Photo

Neymar looks dejected after missing a chance to score against Costa Rica. Carlos Garcia Rawlins / Reuters

Neymar gets emotional after Brazil defeated Costa Rica. Etienne Laurent / EPA

Neymar appeals for a freekick while under pressure from Costa Rica's Giancarlo Gonzalez. Anatoly Maltsev / EPA

Neymar on a roll after being brought down during Brazil's match against Serbia. Peter Powell / EPA

Serbia's Dusan Tadic checks on the condition of Neymar. Antonio Calanni / AP Photo

Neymar in pain after a challenge during Brazil's match against Mexico. Sergey Dolzhenko / EPA

Neymar hits the deck during the last 16 match against Mexico. David Gray / Reuters

Neymar is tackled by Mexico's Hector Herrera. Sergei Grits / AP Photo

Brazil are rolling on through the rounds of the World Cup in Russia, while their star player, Neymar, is spending most of his time rolling around on the floor.

The Brazilian golden boy has never been shy when it comes to showing his skills on the pitch, but this summer we have seen him reach new heights (or should that be lows given his penchant for lying down?) when it comes to drama during the 90 minutes.

Although regularly targeted by opponents keen to nullify the obvious threat he poses, his theatrics have drawn derision from neutrals watching around the world, unimpressed by the needless time spent on the ground attempting to secure further punishment for those marking him.

This has led to a number of comical memes doing the rounds on social media, in which Neymar can be seen continuing his exaggerated roll carried out during the match against Serbia.

For many observers, it has been a shame that a player with such talents is resorting to such histrionics.

He was at his best and worst during Brazil's 2-0 last 16 victory over Mexico on Monday night. And his dive against Costa Rica, which initially won a penalty before being overturned via VAR, will live long in the memory.

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