Fans in China are finally getting a chance to see soccer star David Beckham play in their country, where the game and he are both hugely popular.

Beckham — known in Chinese as "Beikehanmu" — is preparing in Kunming with his new team, Real Madrid, for an exhibition game in Beijing on Aug. 2.

The star midfielder and his teammates, including Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo, practiced for the first time Saturday, dribbling and passing on a rain-soaked field.

"I'm very excited to see this," said 13-year-old Qi Fan, whose soccer jersey was covered with photos of Beckham. "His moves are looking good."

A fan jumped the fence and ran across the field toward the players, apparently seeking an autograph. The man was tackled by authorities and led off the field.

Beckham, married to former Spice Girl Victoria, was sold to the Spanish team in June. He had been Britain's most famous athlete and his appeal cut across all lines — he's popular with soccer fans and non-fans alike, men, women, children and different ethnic groups. And his ever-evolving haircuts are mimicked by teenagers around the globe.

In China, he stars in ad campaigns for Pepsi, Adidas and Castrol Oil.

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