Romanian tennis ace Horia Tecau is the new UNICEF national ambassador in Romania starting April 11, 2017, joining other athletes and stars holding this title.

“Horia Tecau is more than a world tennis champion, he is also a champion for the children. He has been campaigning for many years for children and their access to quality healthcare and education,” said Sandie Blanchet, UNICEF representative in Romania.

In return, Horia Tecau said: “I am honored to be appointed UNICEF national ambassador in Romania and I pledge to support children’s rights and the access of all children to kindergarten and school.”

Alongside international ambassadors David Beckham, Shakira, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams, and national ambassadors Andreea Marin, Gheorghe Hagi and Smiley, Horia Tecau will bring to public attention the messages of children who need support for their rights to be respected and to have a better life.

In Romania, UNICEF has three other national ambassadors, namely Andreea Marin (appointed in 2006), former football star Gheorghe Hagi (2008), and popular local singer Andrei Tiberiu Maria (Smiley) – 2013.

During his 14-year career as professional player, Tecau won 30 world titles. Among the most prestigious there are Dubai 2017, Madrid 2016, Wimbledon 2015, Australian Open 2012, Cincinnati 2012, and Auckland 2010.

At the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, he represented Romania together with Florin Mergea. The two managed a great performance, as they won the first silver medal in the Romanian tennis’ history at the Olympics.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com

(Photo source: UNICEF /  Christian Kostyak)