IOC names Yao Ming as ambassador for Nanjing Youth Olympics

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has named Yao Ming as the latest Ambassador for this summer's second Youth Olympic Games (YOG) taking place in Nanjing, China.

According to IOC Monday, the Chinese basketball legend will share his advice and experience of international competition with the next generation of young athletes, while inspiring young people around the world to get active and embrace the Olympic values, reports Xinhua.

Yao will attend the Nanjing YOG, interact with athletes and take in some of the competition, including basketball, which features at the YOG in its 3x3 format.

The IOC chooses Ambassadors for each edition of the Youth Olympic Games to help spread word of the event and inspire young people to get active and enjoy sport.

South African swimmer Chad le Clos and South Korean golfer Michelle Wie have also been chosen as ambassadors for the Nanjing 2014. Previous ambassadors include sports stars Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps and Yelena Isinbaeva.

The second edition of the Youth Olympic Games will take place in Nanjing, China from Aug 16-28. The Games will feature the 28 sports on the Olympic program, including rugby and golf.