HAPPY MOMENT David Beckham narrowly avoided disaster after nearly slipping in the rain ahead of his emotional speech welcoming Lionel Messi to Inter Miami.
David Beckham almost fell when he stepped out to unveil Lionel Messi but managed to keep his balance before giving a speech for Messi’s arrival in Miami.
David Beckham almost overturned Lionel Messi for all the wrong reasons at his Inter Miami unveiling on Sunday night, as he almost collapsed walking onto the pitch.
Soccer’s biggest star’s show was delayed by torrential rain and thunderstorms in Miami, and the decision to go ahead with the evening’s plans was still light rain.
And Beckham, one of Miami’s co-owners, appeared to lose his balance for a split second as the world’s cameras filmed him as he walked out onto the walkway.
Fortunately, the 48-year-old managed to stay on his feet despite a split-second jolt and when he regained his balance, he stood still with his arms outstretched in relief.
This didn’t go unnoticed by George Maas – who co-owns Miami with Beckham – as the owner playfully waved his hand in front of him, pretending to slide along.
David Beckham almost fell in the rain before welcoming Lionel Messi in Miami
Beckham was seen struggling to stay on his feet as he walked in the rain in Miami
Beckham didn’t let his moment of panic get in the way of the remainder of a huge evening for him and his Inter Miami team.
After he finally took the stage in one piece, he gave an emotional speech reflecting on his journey as Miami owner before welcoming arguably the greatest soccer player of all time to his team in Messi.
’10 years ago, I started my journey to build a new MLS team,’ he told a stadium full of fans.
‘I said then that I dreamed of bringing the best players in the world to Florida and the great city of Miami. Players who share our ambition to grow football in this country, who will inspire the next generation and help build a legacy in this game.
‘Forgive me for feeling a little emotional tonight. It is truly a dream to welcome Lionel Messi to Inter Miami.
‘Leo, we are very proud that you have chosen this club for the next stage of your career. Welcome to the family.
‘We are also proud to be joined by the one and only Sergio Busquets. One of the most complete midfield players of his generation.
‘We are building a special club here at Inter Miami, a club that cares about the community it serves. Our fans make Inter Miami unique. Together we will create unforgettable memories.
‘Like all of you, I can’t wait to see Leo take to the field in our colours. Ladies and gentlemen, the next chapter of our story begins here.’
Beckham will see Messi in action on Friday when Inter Miami take on Cruz Azul in the newly formed League Cup.