1. Early Career – Short & Sporty
When Bale first broke into professional football with Southampton and then Tottenham Hotspur (mid-2000s), he mostly kept his hair relatively short and simple. According to sources, his hairstyle during this time was described as a “shaggy crop” evolving into a more defined faux-hawk style. This kind of hairstyle was well-suited for a young, energetic winger: low maintenance, neat, and sporty.
2. Rise into the Big Leagues – Slicked Back & Short Undercuts
Around his transfer to Real Madrid in 2013, Bale’s hairstyle changed to something more refined. He went for a short back and sides cut with a textured top, often slicked back or with a subtle part. The shorter style matched the polished image of the club and the elevated profile he was entering. He combined professionalism with still keeping a hint of personality.
3. The Signature Era – Long Hair, Man Bun & Undercut
From roughly 2014 onwards, Bale adopted what many now recognise as his signature look: long top hair pulled into a bun or top-knot, with undercut or very short sides.
-The hair on top grew to shoulder-length or longer so it could be tied back.
-The drastic contrast between the long top and shaved/short sides gave a bold, athletic but fashionable look.
-He frequently wore the hair pulled back, keeping it out of his face on the pitch, but also making a style statement.
Some speculation emerged that this long hairstyle also served to conceal thinning at the crown/back of his head. Regardless of the reason, this era is what most people picture when they think of “Gareth Bale hairstyle”.
4. Transition & Shorter Styles – Post-2019 / Post-Retirement
More recently, especially after his move to Los Angeles FC and eventual retirement, Bale has adopted shorter or more moderate hair lengths. One article notes that he “finally chopped long locks” and now has a shorter slicked-back style rather than the full man bun. This suggests a shift from the high-maintenance long style to something more relaxed and mature.
5. Why the Changes Matter
-Practicality: Shorter styles are easier to maintain during intense training and matches.
-Image & Branding: As Bale’s career advanced, his image became more central — the hairstyle became part of his brand.
-Trend Influence: His man bun phase influenced many younger players and fans; his style intersected sport and grooming culture.
-Hair Health / Hairline: The speculation about concealing thinning shows how hairstyle choices can also respond to personal hair concerns.
Final Thoughts
Gareth Bale’s hairstyle journey reflects not only his evolving football career but also broader trends in men's grooming. Starting simple and sporty, moving into a bold long-hair/man bun era, and transitioning back to a shorter more refined style — his hair has mirrored his life stages both on and off the pitch.