TV reporter gropes Beckham on air

MILAN, Italy, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- A reporter for a satirical Italian news program grabbed David Beckham's groin, supposedly to see if his genitalia is as big as it appears in his Armani ads.

In addition to playing professional soccer for AC Milan, Beckham is also a well-known underwear model.

The Daily Telegraph said Beckham was being interviewed outside a hotel in Milan, Italy, when Elena Di Cioccio, star of "Le Iene (The Hyenas,)" approached him, bent down and squeezed him between the legs.

Beckham appeared surprised by the move and Di Cioccio's explanation for why she did it, the Telegraph said. He reportedly backed away from her as security guards surrounded him.

Di Cioccio then ran down the street, yelling, "E piccolo, Beckham!" which translates into "Beckham is small," while her cameraman taped her, the newspaper said.

She also shouted: "You've taken us for a ride! How could you? David!" as Beckham climbed into a waiting car.