Born on August 17, 1977 in Paris, Thierry Henry spent his childhood with a soccer ball by his side. As a teenager, he excelled for the national junior teams of France, traveling the world and gaining valuable match experience.

At the age of thirteen, his professional rights were secured by First Division Monaco. He played his first pro game in December 1994 against rival Nice, when he was just seventeen years old. His offensive impact was immediate and although he had not yet grown into his lanky frame, Henry was heralded as a future star.

He transferred from Juventus in August 1999 to Arsenal FC for ?10.53 million. He made his national team debut in October 1997 against South Africa.

Many people consider Henry to be the most exciting player to watch in world football. Although he plays as a striker, his versatility at all aspects of the game makes him more influential than a traditional striker. He creates as many goals as he scores. Amongst other things, Henry is well known for his exceptional pace and accurate finishing which puts him at, or near, the top of the Premiership top scorers list each season. He was runner up for the 2003 and 2004 FIFA World Player of the Year award.

Henry has been the star of television ads for Nike,Pro Evolution Soccer, Renault?once with his English model girlfriend Nicole Merry whom he married in 2003?and will soon front (presumably along with David Beckham) adverts for Pepsi.