Virtuality is catching up with reality: Gareth Bale also swaps his football boots for putter and driver in the video game cosmos. The Welshman was even allowed to help design the game himself.
With his career end announced in January it also became clear: Gareth Bale will most likely not be able to play in EA SPORTS FC 24. It is unlikely that the Welshman will immediately receive an icon or hero card for Ultimate Team. However, fans of the former Real professional will not have to do without him virtually – they just have to change the sport. Bale has been available in the golf simulation PGA Tour 2K23 since Thursday.
His inclusion in the game is not something taken out of thin air: The 34-year-old had already been spotted on the green time and again during his active football career. In recent months, he attracted attention with a 16th-place finish at the Pebble Beach golf tournament and his first hole-in-one. These achievements will now be rewarded with an entry into PGA Tour 2K23. A move that is sure to be promotional.
“The Elevens Club” according to Bale’s preferences
Beyond his new virtual character, Bale got to help course designer VctryLnSprts create his very own course. “The Elevens Club” – after his former shirt number – includes large trees, undulating fairways and greens, water holes “for a little danger” and a waterfall. Plus, as Bale, some fresh challenges can be tackled to unlock rewards for MyPLAYER.
