Cristiano Ronaldo is the latest all-star footballer to join the PokerStars team.

Ronaldo

The Real Madrid and Portugal forward will act as an ambassador, promoting PokerStars to his huge fanbase.

He said: "I like playing for winning teams, and PokerStars is the perfect partner for me. As a brand, it is always looking at ways to improve and stay ahead of the curve, and as an athlete that is something I truly respect.

"I started playing poker a few years ago, and I love the competition, strategy and fun. I'm looking forward to taking my game to the online and live poker tables and meeting my fans head to head.

"Although football is my world, poker has always been my game. I'm very excited to join the team."

Ronaldo will be promoting PokerStars in advertising campaigns and is slated to make special appearances at major live poker events and online poker tournaments. One event planned for later this year will give his fans the chance to meet their hero and challenge him at the poker table.

Michael Hazel, the interim CEO of PokerStars, said: "The poker table is not a new arena for athletes, as many have, over the years, sought other ways to satisfy their love for competition, and pursue challenges.

"Ronaldo is one of the most famous names in the world and PokerStars is thrilled to partner with him. We look forward to him spreading his love of the game worldwide by sharing his PokerStars experiences with his huge social following and fan base."

Team PokerStars already includes a number of top sports stars, including Ronaldo Nazário and current Brazil captain Neymar Jr.

David Baazov, chairman and CEO of Amaya Inc., which owns the PokerStars brand, said: "Ronaldo is part of a new generation of global superstar athletes that work hard, play smart and encourage their fans to share in their lives. We're proud that Ronaldo - and fellow elite player Neymar Jr - have chosen to make PokerStars a partner in their journey and to share their love of the game of poker with their legions of fans."