Beckham out of World Cup; to miss most of MLS season

Global soccer star David Beckham was dealt a huge set back in his aspirations to represent England in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Beckham tore his Achilles' tendon in a soccer match with his Italian League soccer team AC Milan on March 14.

During the Serie A season game, Beckham noticed a big problem when he shifted his weight while handling the ball.

He then reached down to grab his ankle and signaled for assistance.

He was in noticeable pain and discomfort as he left the field and was in tears as he was carted back to the locker room.

The next day, Beckham made his way to a private hospital in Finland to have his ankle surgically repaired.

Although the surgery was successful, he was forced to accept the fact that would be sidelined for the next several months.

In addition to missing the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, he may also miss a significant portion of his 2010 season with the Los Angeles Galaxy of the MLS.

Los Angeles Galaxy Head Coach Bruce Arena expressed sympathy for his injured player via a Galaxy press release stating "Injuries are an unfortunate part of our game and they are even more disappointing when they happen to a player who was so close to realizing his dream of representing his nation at this summer's World Cup."

Arena continued, "We will give David our complete support to make sure that he is able to get himself back to full health before he returns to the field.

David remains an important player for the Galaxy and we look forward to welcoming him back to the club and assisting him in his recovery."

Beckham later stated via his website that he was very upset at the situation, but that he wanted to "thank everyone for their messages of support."

He went on to add, "I hope to make a swift and full recovery. Thanks, David."

Beckham's primary goal was to represent his country and be a facilitator of success to his countrymen in the most significant soccer tournament on the planet.

He was willing to risk everything, play anywhere and accommodate anyone in order to make his dream of a 4th World Cup a reality.

But every seasoned professional also understands that they are potentially one injury away from total collapse.

Beckham has never experienced a twist of fate to this extent in his career and how he handles it in the days ahead will be critiqued heavily.

As a sign solidarity and sportsmanship to his Milan teammates, Beckham drafted a personal letter of support to them.

He wished them luck for the remainder of the season and hoped they'd end the season with a championship.

Beckham expressed, "I would like to thank you for all of your support after the Chievo Verona match. I hope to play with you again and be part of this marvellous club"

On March 23, Beckham arrived at Home Depot Center in Carson, CA to pay his Galaxy teammates a visit.

Galaxy veteran Eddie Lewis said it caught him by suprize, "I don't think anybody knew he was dropping by. It was nice to see him. He's in good spirits."

Although Beckham will miss most of the 2010 MLS season, the Galaxy is remains hopeful to possibly see their superstar back in action sometime in September.