Teary-eyed Beckham delivers farewell performance

Agence France-Presse

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Football superstar David Beckham delivered an assist in his farewell performance for Paris Saint-Germain.

FAREWELL. Beckham bid competitive football adieu with an assist. Photo from Paris Saint-Germain's Facebook page.

PARIS, France — David Beckham bade a tearful farewell to Paris on Saturday as the former England star made his final home appearance for Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint Germain before heading into retirement.

Last week, Beckham, 38, had helped PSG to their first league title since 1994 with a win over Lyon, and then announced he would retire at the end of the season having captured a championship in a fourth different league after England, Spain and the United States.

“Thanks to everyone in Paris, to all of my teammates, the staff and fans,” said Beckham, who was in floods of tears when he was substituted 10 minutes from the end of the 3-1 victory over relegated Brest.

“It’s been very special to finish my career here.”

Captain in farewell performance

Beckham was made captain for the night for his farewell performance by coach Carlo Ancelotti.

When he left the pitch, he was warmly embraced by all of his teammates while the crowd accorded him a standing ovation.

When he reappeared for the presentation of the Ligue 1 trophy, he was draped in an English flag as a giant video screen paid a tribute which concluded with the words, ‘Thank you, David’.

“I now want to enjoy time with my family. I have all the memories I need.

“Paris has always been one of the world’s most beautiful places for me. I am very sad to be leaving.”

Appropriately, ‘Spice Boy’ Beckham was serenaded by the Beatles’ hit ‘Hello, Goodbye’ as a spectacular laser show pierced the Parc des Princes night.

On the pitch, Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice.

Signing off with an assist

Beckham had a hand in the other PSG goal, his corner finding Blaise Matuidi as the former Manchester United star signed off with an assist while Charlison Benschop replied for Brest.

When Ancelotti withdrew him with 10 minutes remaining, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan and LA Galaxy star, watched by wife Victoria and his parents, was in tears.

Beckham may only have made barely a dozen appearances for PSG since joining on loan in January, yet his presence has spurred the club on, as well as giving the French game a huge shot in the arm in terms of publicity. – Rappler.com

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