Share

Obama ribs 'old' Beckham

Washington - US President Barack Obama ribbed aging soccer icon David Beckham over his underwear line on Tuesday, as he celebrated Los Angeles Galaxy's Major League Soccer title at the White House.

Obama also paid tribute to the toughness of the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star after he battled through the championship season last year with a stress fracture of the spine and an injured hamstring.

"He is tough. It is a rare man who can be that tough on the field and also have his own line of underwear. David Beckham is that man," Obama joked.

Beckham, 37, caused a stir earlier this year when he modeled his line of "Bodywear" underwear by H&M during an advertisement shown during the NFL Super Bowl championship game.

The president also quipped that Beckham was much older than some of his young team-mates.

"We are getting old David, although you are holding up better than me."

Beckham was joined at the ceremony in the East Room of the White House by team-mates, including Landon Donovan, the US national team star, and Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane.

Beckham, who had a strong season last year despite his injuries, is off to a hot start in 2012, and fired home one of his trademark long-range free-kicks in a 1-1 draw with Montreal Impact on Saturday.

After winning 115 England caps, Beckham is hoping for a return to the international stage later this year as he guns for a place in the British soccer team at the London Olympics.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1163 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1357 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2068 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE