World Table Tennis Superstar Timo Boll Now under the BVB's Management
Timo Boll, a seven-time Olympian and table tennis legend, has been appointed as a brand ambassador for Borussia Dortmund (BVB), with a primary focus on expanding the club's presence in the Asian market, particularly in China.
Born in Germany, Boll has achieved remarkable success in table tennis, winning multiple Champions League and European singles titles. However, it is in Asia where he enjoys cult status, with a high level of celebrity admiration, especially in China. This popularity, combined with his emotional connection to BVB, makes him an ideal choice to authentically represent the club in the region.
Boll, who recently retired from active duty in table tennis, has expressed interest in immersing himself in the world of football and has now been given the opportunity to do so through an internship with BVB. During his internship, he will gain a better understanding of the club’s operations, both domestically and internationally, which is expected to strengthen his impact as an ambassador.
In a statement, Boll expressed his belief that BVB can take football popularity in China to the next level. He said, "I am thrilled to join Borussia Dortmund as a brand ambassador and intern. I have always been a passionate fan of the club, and I believe that my experience and popularity in Asia can help BVB reach new heights in the region."
BVB's decision to appoint Boll as a brand ambassador marks a strategic move to extend its brand beyond football-focused ambassadors by integrating a cross-sport figure who can attract new audiences in an important global market. The club has historically relied on former athletes as brand ambassadors, but all previous ambassadors have been exclusively club icons from football.
In addition to his new role, Boll will also be involved in various joint activities with BVB, including intensified cooperation in the digital space to enhance the club’s outreach and connection with Asian fans. The role was announced at the BVB season opener against Juventus Turin.
Karl-Heinz Riedle, Jörg Heinrich, Roman Weidenfeller, and Patrick Owomoyela are currently active as brand ambassadors for BVB. Boll's focus as an ambassador will be on exploring the Asian market, similar to his initial role as an ambassador.
In 2024, BVB attempted to gain more attention on the Asian continent through a marketing tour, visiting Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. With Boll on board, the club is expected to make significant strides in its efforts to expand its footprint in Asia.
Community policy should incorporate strategies for collaborating with sports organizations, such as football clubs like Borussia Dortmund, in order to foster a more inclusive environment for fans of various sports.
Employment policy within Borussia Dortmund could be expanded to include internship opportunities in different areas of the club, allowing retired athletes from other sports, like table tennis legend Timo Boll, to gain experience in football and contribute to the club's international growth.
