"I have always been a big fan of McDonald's ever since the first restaurant opened in China 10 years ago," said Yao. "To be a part of such a great brand with the ability to positively touch millions of people around the world is a real thrill for me. And, I share McDonald's commitment to being the best, both as an athlete and as part of the broader world community."
According to Light, Yao Ming will play a key role in McDonald's global marketing plans, with emphasis in such areas as physical fitness and activity, Olympics initiatives, and ongoing "i'm lovin' it" marketing events and customer communications. He will also lend his support to Ronald McDonald House Charities© and its work on behalf of children worldwide.
"Yao Ming is at the top of his game, respected globally as a leader both on and off the court," said Light. "You can expect to see him representing our brand in a number of fun and surprising ways all around the world."
Eric Foo, Managing Director, McDonald's China, said: "McDonald's China is especially proud of Yao Ming. He is a wonderful role model for people of all ages and we look forward to working closely with him as a McDonald's Brand Ambassador."
Nicknamed the "Little Giant" in the NBA, Yao Ming has taken the United States by storm as a center on the Houston Rockets since his rookie year in 2002. Born and raised in Shanghai, he is the first No. 1 NBA Draft pick to come from an international basketball league, and stands as the tallest player ever taken with the first selection.
Yao was named a starter for the Western Conference in both the 2003 and 2004 NBA All-Star Games.
An NBA marketing partner since 1990, McDonald's is the world's leading foodservice retailer with more than 30,000 restaurants, serving nearly 47 million people each day in over 100 countries. There are currently 580 local McDonald's restaurants in China. More than 80 percent of McDonald's restaurants around the world are owned and operated by independent, local businessmen and women.
