Gareth Bale's latest retirement hint as Real Madrid star takes on first official golf role

Gareth Bale has taken his first official role in golf but remains focused on inspiring Wales to the World Cup.

The Real Madrid and Welsh ace was confirmed on Monday as global ambassador for the R&A to help grow golf.

Bale joins Niall Horan and Modest! Golf in backing a drive to encourage more people into playing golf, including women and young people.

But pals of the 32-year-old insist his main aim this season remains getting Wales to Qatar 2022 via the play-offs.

Bale returned to the bench for Real as an unused sub two games ago and is working hard on his fitness in Spain after a calf injury sustained on international duty in November.

Wales are bidding to reach their first World Cup since 1958 ahead of a home tie with Austria in March in the play-off semi-finals and, if successful, then face either Scotland or Ukraine in Cardiff for a place in Qatar.

Skipper and record-scorer Bale has not played any competitive football since coming off injured against Belarus in Cardiff on his 100th cap.

But his last great ambition in his playing career is to help Wales reach the World Cup.

His contract is up this summer when Bale will consider his options but he could yet retire from football if Wales fail to make Qatar.

It would give the two handicapper more time to focus on his other great passion for golf.

Bale, who is a partner in the golf division at ICM Stellar Sports, said, “Golf is an amazing sport and it has always been an ambition of mine to encourage more people to take it up.

“This is a really exciting move by The R&A and I’m honoured to be able to play my part in their efforts to inspire people of all ages to give golf a try.”

Bale has only played three games for Real Madrid this season after a hamstring tear from