My Sporting Life is The i Paper’s look behind the curtain at what drives sports stars to greatness. This week we speak to Gareth Bale, the former Wales captain and five-time Champions League winner, about the moments that shaped his remarkable career. From financial advice to the victories, setbacks and passions beyond football, Bale reflects on the experiences that made him one of Britain’s greatest athletes.

What was the highest point of your career?

Winning the Champions League with Real Madrid is right up there, especially scoring in finals and being part of such an incredible team.

Bale won the Champions League five times with Real Madrid over a nine-year period (Photo: Getty)

But playing for Wales and taking the country to major tournaments meant everything to me. Those moments were different because you felt the whole nation was with you.