Rugby star Jonny Wilkinson's fame has turned up a notch thanks to his performance at the World Cup in Australia this weekend. And now the sportsman, who, along with the England squad, was greeted by thousands of fans upon arrival at Heathrow airport on Tuesday, has received some sage advice from someone particularly knowledgeable of the fame game – David Beckham.
The footballer, who became fast friends with Jonny after they shot an advert together earlier this year, says the rugby star can expect the media spotlight to heat up even more. "He's on cloud nine and it hasn't sunk in yet," Becks said on Monday, as Britain waited for Jonny's return from Down Under. "He hasn't seen much of what has been going on in England and will be surprised by the welcome."
David advises the 24-year-old star should look to his loved ones for support. "It can get too much and that's where his family and those around him come in. He's got a lot of strength there and he's a very down to earth person."
As for the rugby player's hot property status, David says: "It's going to be crazy for him," adding later: "It's nice to have a friend in a similar position."
Meanwhile, Jonny has expressed his appreciation to the throngs of fans who came out to welcome the England team at Heathrow. "I'm overawed by the support – it's hugely humbling and massively uplifting," he said. "The guys all appreciate that more than they can put into words."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
