AC Milan's defender and captain Paolo Ma [Getty Images]

AC Milan's defender and captain Paolo Maldini acknwoledges the supporters at the end of his team's Serie A football match against AS Roma in Milan's San Siro Stadium on May 24, 2009. After 24 seasons as one of Italy's finest defenders and AC Milan's emblem, Paolo Maldini finally bids farewell to his adoring home fans. AFP PHOTO / FILIPPO MONTEFORTE (Photo credit should read FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP FILIPPO MONTEFORTE