England legend Sol Campbell in Bulawayo

Former England football international and Arsenal legend Sol Campbell is taking time out to discover the charm of Bulawayo while in Zimbabwe for the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Under-18 tournament, where his daughter is competing.

The football icon, widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of his generation, has been seen enjoying the city's tranquil spots, particularly its coffee culture.

"I haven't seen much so far, but I have been to a few coffee shops and I have enjoyed it immensely," Campbell told reporters on the sidelines of the tournament yesterday. "By the time I leave, I think I will have visited all the coffee shops in the city."

While his schedule is largely filled with tennis commitments, Campbell expressed enthusiasm for exploring Bulawayo's historical and natural landmarks. The city, often dubbed Zimbabwe's cultural capital, boasts attractions such as the Natural History Museum, the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, the Railway Museum, the Khami Ruins, and the Matobo National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"There are some things that I would love to do and explore while I am here," Campbell said. "For example, there's the rhino tracking and the rhino walk. Of course, the trouble is we are playing tennis every day, and we are training. I haven't had time to get on a car or a truck for an hour or two."

He added that while he doesn't want to wear out his daughter with additional travel, he plans to stay local, get some gym sessions in, and enjoy the slower pace of life in Bulawayo.

Though globally celebrated for his football career - including over 500 Premier League appearances, 73 England caps, and the distinction of being the first black man to score for England in a major tournament - Campbell is also a passionate tennis enthusiast. He revealed that tennis has been a part of his life for decades and is now a regular family affair.

"Tennis is not something new to me. Of course, I am a bit more involved with it nowadays because of my three children, who all play the sport," he said. "I'm not at the level of these guys who are playing here - they are far ahead of me - but I do love to play sometimes."

Campbell's visit adds to a growing list of global sporting icons who have recently visited Zimbabwe. Earlier this year, former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson made headlines with a surprise trip to Victoria Falls, followed by former German midfield star Bastian Schweinsteiger, who brought the UEFA Champions League trophy to the iconic destination. Other celebrities who've visited the Falls include Springboks captain Siya Kolisi, Barcelona's Rayco Garcia, and Hollywood stars Paris Hilton, Michael Douglas, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

While Victoria Falls remains Zimbabwe's most famous tourist magnet, Bulawayo is emerging as a quiet favourite among visitors looking for heritage, authenticity, and a slice of real Zimbabwean life.

As Campbell continues his stay, the city is poised to make a lasting impression on yet another international guest.