David Beckham's Chinese tattoo

Mar 18, 2008, 11:35 GMT

David Beckham of US team \'LA Galaxy\' EPA/YM YIK

David Beckham has had a Chinese proverb tattooed on his torso.

The soccer star unveiled his new body art, which runs from his left nipple to his groin, at a training session with his team Los Angeles Galaxy.

The etching reads 'Death and life have determined appointments. Riches and honour depend upon heaven.'

David, who is married to Spice Girls star Victoria, had the Chinese writing inked on his body during his team's recent trip to the Far East.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "This tattoo uses a completely different technique to all the others. It appears on his skin as if it has been brushed on. It is a really intricate process and unique to Hong Kong.

"He has always wanted the Chinese brush-stroke effect. Victoria loves it. There is more emphasis on the word life - which is in bold ink, with the word death slightly smaller. The proverb has a strong meaning for David. He is really thoughtful about tattoos. He doesn't just rush in."

This is the latest in David's growing collection of etchings.

The 32-year-old star, who previously admitted he is addicted to tattoos, recently declared his love for Victoria by having the words 'Forever by your side' inked on his left forearm.

Earlier this year, he paid £2,500 for a seven-inch naked image of his 33-year-old wife.

David and Victoria also have matching tattoos of the Roman numerals VIII.V.MMVI, which represent the date they renewed their wedding vows on March 8, 2006.

David's collection also includes the names of the couple's three children, Brooklyn, nine, Romeo, five and Cruz, three.

(C) BANG Media International