Gareth Bale

During his remarkable career, Gareth Bale was one of the top footballers in the world. At 9 years old, Bale caught the attention of Southampton when he was playing in a six-a-side tournament with Cardiff Civil Service Football Club. At 16 years old, Bale became the youngest player to play for Southampton. He really made his mark on the international stage with Tottenham Hotspur from 2007-2013. Bale was the PFA Players' Player of the Year and was named to the UEFA Team of the Year in 2011 and 2013.

In 2013, he was also named Premier League Player of the Year before being sold to Real Madrid. Bale continued his dominance, helping the club win La Liga three times and capture five Champions League crowns. He returned to Tottenham on loan in 2021 and then played a final year for Real Madrid in 2022. Bale capped his club career in America, winning the Supporters Shield and MLS Cup with LAFC in 2022.

Bale is arguably also the greatest player in the history of the Wales National Team. He became the youngest player to debut for his country in 2006. Bale went on to become Wales' all-time leader in goals and appearances. He capped his legacy by helping them qualify for the World Cup in 2022 for the first time in 64 years.

Bale was named Welsh Footballer of the Year six times and is a Member of the Order of the British Empire. He is known as a generous philanthropist and is also an avid golfer off the pitch.