comScore announced worldwide traffic figures to mlsnet.com, the official website of the leading U.S. soccer league, attracting over one million unique visitors in July, 2007– up 117 percent on the previous year. This growth can be accounted for by the arrival of former England captain, David Beckham, who was signed by MLS side LA Galaxy at the start of the year. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is reported to have signed a deal alleged to be worth around $250 million, making him one of the highest paid sports stars of all time.
By the end of 2006, traffic to mlsnet.com had slumped to 230,000 unique visitors, down from 478,000 in July. However when LA Galaxy announced the signing of David Beckham in January, traffic immediately jumped to 808,000 unique visitors– a 252 percent month-on-month increase.
With the unveiling of Beckham as a Galaxy player at the club’s ground on July 13th, and his subsequent playing debut in a friendly match against Chelsea on July 21st, worldwide traffic to the site rocketed to over one million unique visitors.
Originally posted on August 30, 2007 @ 3:32 pm
I think that this nation has a sportsmania complex. It is incredible the money that is poured into sports from every angle. The promotors, the facilities, the fans, the memorabilia, etc. So it’s not surprising that the focus on sports has spilled over into the internet, for news of the various sports. It’s a fast moving field and a great opportunity for web site and bloggings to get some of the action.
Always admired David for his world star status and because he is a dedicated football player.
Now he’s getting involved in the new Giorgio Armani male underwear. Just started the photo shooting and will continue in the 2008. Surely we will enjoy some nice new commercials in the next year.
http://dkenews.blogspot.com/2007/12/david-beckam-image-of-new-armanis.html