Beckham shoot scores big for Giorgio Armani campaign

David Beckham's first advert for Giorgio Armani's latest international billboard campaign is causing quite a stir. The photo of a reclining Beckham in close-fitting white underwear has been splashed across the UK national press, including the front page of the Sun, under the headline 'Swollenballs' - a play on his wife Victoria's nickname for the footballer, Goldenballs. The deal will net the former England captain a reported $20m over three years, with billboards appearing in New York, London, Paris, Milan, Rome and Tokyo.

Beckham signed up as Armani's global ambassador in November and it is likely the campaign will further boost his profile in the US. The American magazine Vanity Fair is planning to run a special 'gatefold' cover for its February edition, featuring more shots of the LA Galaxy player.