David Beckham appointed ambassador for Chinese football

David Beckham is taking on the challenge of boosting the image of China’s troubled soccer industry.

The world’s most populous nation has recruited the veteran Paris Saint-Germain midfielder as a global ambassador to help promote the Chinese game both at home and abroad as it combats a serious image problem caused by recent match-fix scandals and the premature departure of two high-profile foreign imports.

According to a statement released by Beckham’s management, the Chinese Football Association was drawn to the former England captain’s “credibility as one of the most admired sportsmen and iconic figures in the world as well as his outstanding sportsmanship and professionalism.”

“I am honored to have been asked to play such an important role at this special time in Chinese football history,” declared 37-year-old Beckham, who is a worldwide celebrity following stints with Manchester United and Real Madrid in addition to his high-profile off-pitch endorsement deals.

“I’m excited by the prospect of promoting the world’s greatest game to Chinese sports fans as I’ve seen first-hand the growing interest in football there,” added Beckham.

“This is a wonderful sport that inspires people across the world and brings families together, so I’m relishing the opportunity of introducing more fans to the game.”

Beckham’s appointment coincides with the 20th anniversary of professional football in China, which is home to 1.3 billion people.

Source: cnn.com