Clarence Seedorf

Clarence Seedorf’s Background

Born April 1, 1976 – this Dutch football sensation was actually born in Suriname. Clarence began his professional football career ready and breaking records when he debuted as a gifted right sided midfielder with Ajax Amsterdam as the youngest player ever – he was only 16.

Having emerged through the ranks of Ajax’s fabled Youth Academy, Clarence played a starring role in the golden team that won the Eredivisie title in 1993 and 1995, and his contribution was acknowledged by his fellow professionals, who voted him Dutch talent of the year in both 1993 and 1994.

Among the many highlights of his career for Real Madrid was his infamous 45-yard strike in the clasico against the follow Spanish team, Atlético Madrid. It was precisely the sort of contribution that brought him to the attention of Inter Milan. Ahead of the 1999/2000 season, Clarence joined the Italian team.

To date, in addition to his four Champions League winner’s medals, Clarence’s ever expanding trophy haul includes two FIFA Club World Cup triumphs, one UEFA Super Cup, four domestic league titles, two domestic cups, three domestic super cups… In short, no Dutch player in history has won more silverware.

At the 10th annual UEFA Club Football Awards in 2007, Clarence was recognized as Europe’s Best Midfielder. The same year, he was awarded the Torretta award for Best European athlete.

It is a mark of Clarence’s standing within the international game that, in 2004, football legend Pelé included him as one of the 125 best living footballers in the world, in a list commissioned by FIFA.

Clarence Seedorf overtook Frank de Boer as the Dutch footballer with the most European club matches under his belt, reaching 130 on Feb 20, 2008 with AC Milan’s match against London’s Arsenal.

Off the field, Clarence’s humanitarian efforts are as impressive. He founded Champions For Children Foundation, in 2005, which is a non –profit organization. Champions for Children’s goal is to enhance the lives of children through sport. Seedorf is also one of five Nelson Mandela Legacy Champions in recognition of his philanthropic efforts and mission.

Diversifying his knowledge and skill in sport, Seedorf is owner of On International, a sport management firm, also located in Milan and Milanese hot spot, restaurant Fingers.

A father of four, Seedorf and his family have been residents of Italy for the past ten years.