Gareth Bale's transition from the football pitch to the golf course has taken a significant step forward as he embarks on a new role as an ambassador for Steph Curry's 'Underrated Golf' venture. This exciting opportunity comes on the heels of his retirement from professional football, following a storied career highlighted by five Champions League victories and his captaincy of the Welsh national team at the 2022 World Cup.
Known for his affinity for golf, Bale famously stirred debates with a flag reading "Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order" during Wales's qualification celebration for the 2020 European Championship. Throughout his tenure at Real Madrid, his passion for golf often made headlines, and now, he's embracing it fully in his post-football endeavors. Even before hanging up his boots, Bale had already established himself as a global ambassador for The R&A, and now, he's expanding his footprint in the golfing world.
Bale's involvement with Curry's golf initiative was hinted at during a recent courtside appearance at a Golden State Warriors game in Los Angeles, where he received a signed jersey from NBA superstar Curry himself. Confirming his participation shortly afterward, Bale teased the announcement on Instagram, signaling his excitement for what lay ahead.
As an ambassador for Underrated Golf's European Tour, Bale will be joining forces with former Ladies European Tour professional and Sky Sports host Henni Koyack. Together, they'll be responsible for attracting athletes to participate in tournaments while providing mentorship and support. This role aligns with Bale's longstanding commitment to junior golf development, exemplified by his work with Wales Golf, where he previously hosted the Gareth Bale Festival of Sport and Golf Championship.
Bale's debut with Underrated Golf coincides with their inaugural European event at Walton Heath Golf Course in May. The tournament will feature 96 young players aged 12 to 18 from across the continent, competing in both boys' and girls' divisions over two days of intense competition. The winners will earn coveted spots in the Curry Cup Tour Championship in September, marking a significant milestone in their budding golf careers.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunity, Bale emphasized his belief in the transformative power of golf and its ability to provide diverse opportunities for youth. His involvement with Underrated Golf represents a fusion of his passion for the sport with his commitment to fostering young talent, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter beyond the football pitch.