The Diplomat
The addition of two of the biggest names in NBA basketball to the list of UN Tourism Ambassadors is an important step in promoting the transformative power of sports tourism. Stephen Curry and Zaza Pachulia are, as of this week, UN Tourism Ambassadors for sustainable and inclusive sports tourism.
Curry is considered one of the greatest figures in the history of American basketball. He has led the Golden State Warriors to multiple NBA championships and is widely recognized as one of the architects of the modern basketball revolution. Curry’s appointment as Ambassador for Sustainable Tourism will raise awareness of UN Tourism’s work to a global audience, and increase recognition of the power of sports tourism to create opportunities and drive growth.
The Georgian-born Pachulia also excelled on the court for the Warriors and six other NBA teams in his career, as well as captaining his national team. Today, in addition to serving as an executive advisor to the Warriors, he is known for his important community work.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcomed these new signings: “It is very exciting and a true honor to welcome two world-class athletes like Stephen Curry and Zaza Pachulia to the UN Tourism family. Their achievements on the court and their commitment to community development make them exemplary figures to promote the benefits of sustainable tourism in the sports category around the world. Curry and Pachulia will help take UN Tourism’s work in promoting sustainable and inclusive sports tourism to the next level.”
In these new roles, Curry and Pachulia will work to promote the positive impact of sports tourism on communities and economies around the world. As UN Tourism Ambassadors, Curry and Pachulia will participate in initiatives that highlight how sport can boost tourism, foster cultural understanding and contribute to sustainable economic growth. Their involvement aims to inspire travelers and fans to explore diverse destinations through sporting events and activities.
The two basketball legends join a growing list of UN Tourism Ambassadors that includes leading figures from the worlds of sport, culture and business who stand out for excellence in their respective fields, as well as a commitment to promoting tourism as a source of opportunity and understanding.
