Timo Boll takes role as endorser for Borussia Dortmund - Timo Boll takes up promotional role at Borussia Dortmund
Table Tennis Legend Timo Boll Becomes Borussia Dortmund's First Non-Football Brand Ambassador
In a surprising turn of events, table tennis legend Timo Boll has been appointed as brand ambassador for German football powerhouse Borussia Dortmund (BVB). The announcement was made on the sidelines of BVB's season opener against Juventus Turin.
This new development marks a departure from BVB's tradition of having footballers as brand ambassadors. Timo Boll's appointment is a strategic move aimed at expanding BVB's presence in the Asian market, particularly in China, where football enjoys immense popularity.
As a legendary table tennis player and a cult sports figure in Asia, Boll is uniquely positioned to bridge BVB with Asian fans in new ways. His role as brand ambassador primarily focuses on promoting BVB in Asia, leveraging his strong fan base and influence in the region.
Boll has expressed his admiration for BVB in the past, having a BVB sticker in his locker. At his own request, he will complete a multi-week internship with BVB, gaining insight into the club's operations both in Germany and abroad. This will help him represent the club more effectively.
Boll's internship is not limited to the domestic aspects of the club. He will get to know the various departments of BVB, including its international operations. This internship is a significant step in Boll's involvement with the club, reflecting his commitment to BVB beyond his table tennis career.
BVB's current brand ambassadors include football icons such as Karl-Heinz Riedle, Jörg Heinrich, Roman Weidenfeller, and Patrick Owomoyela. However, Boll's unique ambassador status as a non-footballer marks a new strategic approach for the club in reaching diverse Asian sports audiences.
In an interview with BVB in late March, Boll expressed his interest in a role at his favourite club. His ambassadorship centres on leveraging his Asian popularity to grow BVB's fanbase and presence in Asia.
Boll's retirement from active play only a few months ago has not deterred him from continuing his association with the sport. His internship and ambassador role at BVB are testaments to his enduring love for the club and his desire to contribute to its growth.
References:
- Borussia Dortmund
- BBC Sport
- SportsPro
- ESPN
Despite his retirement from table tennis, Timo Boll has taken on a new role as Borussia Dortmund's first non-football brand ambassador, potentially strengthening the club's ties with the Asian market given his popularity in the region. This partnership deviates from Borussia Dortmund's tradition of collaborating with footballers as brand ambassadors, showcasing an innovative approach in connecting with diverse sports enthusiasts, beyond just football fans.
