Federer becomes Unicef ambassador

Federer set up his own children's charity in 2003

Roger Federer has been appointed a goodwill ambassador for global children's charity Unicef.

The world number one joins fellow sportsman David Beckham, along with a host of actors and musicians, as international figureheads for Unicef.

"I'm very excited and honoured," Federer told BBC Radio Five Live.

Unicef executive director Ann Veneman added: "Roger will bring extraordinary energy and talents to improving the lives of children across the world."

Federer established his own charity in 2003 to fund projects benefiting disadvantaged children in South Africa - his mother's native country.

"As I have a foundation of my own, it really made sense for me to accept being a goodwill ambassador for Unicef," said the 24-year-old Swiss.

It's important to me to help the many children throughout the world who do not have the basic resources they need Roger Federer

Last year, Federer instigated the ATP All-Star Rally for Relief, a fundraising event to help those affected by the Asian tsunami.

That led to the launch of Ace, a partnership between the ATP and Unicef aimed at promoting tennis as a way of ensuring the health, education and protection of children.

"I've been lucky in life, and able to pursue my passion for tennis since I was six years old," said Federer.

"It's important to me to help the many children throughout the world who do not have the basic resources they need."