rStars has reached an agreement with Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who will become a team ambassador and will promote the operator in global marketing campaigns.

Ronaldo, who plays for ten-time European champions Real Madrid and is a three-time Ballon d’Or winner, announced the news via his Facebook page and will play on PokerStars under the user ID “C.Ronaldo”.

The announcement follows Stars’ signing of Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr to become an ambassador in May.

Ronaldo said in a press release: "I like playing for winning teams and PokerStars is the perfect partner for me. As a brand, it is always looking at ways to improve and stay ahead of the curve, and as an athlete that is something I truly respect.

“I started playing poker a few years ago and I love the competition, strategy and fun. I'm looking forward to taking my game to the online and live poker tables and meeting my fans head to head. Although football is my world, poker has always been my game. I'm very excited to join the team."

David Baazov, CEO of provider Amaya Gaming, Stars’ parent company, said: "Ronaldo is part of a new generation of global superstar athletes that work hard, play smart and encourage their fans to share in their lives. We're proud that Ronaldo - and fellow elite player Neymar Jr - have chosen to make PokerStars a partner in their journey and to share their love of the game of poker with their legions of fans."