Football (soccer)

Backing Becks: Don't Knock The Soccer Star's Talents

Frank Deford — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:04:00 +0000

The most unforgiving criticism in sport is directed at any athlete who fans believe is celebrated too excessively above his true talent level — especially those stars who are gloried because they're such pretty people.

To wit: As David Beckham retires, so much attention is being devoted not to how good he was but to how good he was not. I never saw that emphasized with a fine athlete before.

WATCH: David Beckham Tears Up At Final Home Game

Sun, 19 May 2013 12:38:00 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf4Ws_czMkc

Sports: Playoffs, Hard Hits, Soccer Kicks

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:13:00 +0000

Host Scott Simon talks to ESPN's Howard Bryant about the NBA playoffs, Washington Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper's collision with a wall, and David Beckham's retirement from soccer.

David Beckham Retires From Soccer, Ending Storied Career

Bill Chappell — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:42:00 +0000

David Beckham, who starred for Manchester United, Real Madrid and England's national team before heading to the United States and Paris, is retiring. The news was confirmed Thursday by England's Football Association.

The midfielder played his first game for Manchester United in 1992 and eventually rose to become captain of England's international team for more than 50 games, including several World Cup tournaments.

Richard Swanson Didn't Reach Brazil, But He Found An Audience

Bill Chappell — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:41:00 +0000

Hundreds of condolences are appearing online for Richard Swanson, the Seattle man whose plan to dribble a soccer ball all the way to Brazil to raise money for charity ended Tuesday after he was struck and killed by a pickup truck in Oregon.