Champion

Luis Figo

"TB is one of the most unfair fouls in the game of life... That is why I have made a commitment to the global fight against TB." -Luis Figo

Luis Figo is perhaps known best for his athletic prowess on the soccer field, and rightfully so. The Portuguese star has established himself as one of the most talented and skillful players of his generation, having played for some of the best teams that Europe has to offer, including FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. He was the first player to earn the title of “Golden Boy”, was named the 2000 European Footballer of the Year, the 2001 FIFA World Player of the Year, and was named amongst the FIFA 100. He was also named Portuguese Footballer of the Year in 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000.

But Luis also has a talent and ability in rallying others to conquer the devastating and debilitating disease of TB, with a passion and commitment in fighting TB that has transcended borders and reached individuals around the world, making him a central figure in the World Health Organization's Stop TB campaign.

Luis is driven by the unjust nature of those children who are unnecessarily suffering from TB when they should be out playing and enjoying their youth, and believes that everyone should be allowed the opportunity to live a healthy life and pursue their dreams. As Goodwill Ambassador against Tuberculosis, Luis is doing his part to change this injustice so that one day all men, women, and children will be on a level playing field.  As Ambassador and through his work with the Stop TB Partnership, Luis has become an avid spokesperson traveling to all parts of the globe in order to raise public, political, and media attention around the horrific scourge of tuberculosis.

Luis believes that “we should perceive the fight against tuberculosis as a match to be won”, and that through teamwork and cooperation among agencies, countries, and individuals, we can prevail. "Please join my team," Luis pleads, "pick up the ball and run with me to stop TB."

Luis Figo speaks at the Global Leaders' Forum on HIV/TB:

Watch Luis speak at the Global Leaders' Forum.

Watch his Call to Action.