Former England captain David Beckham has been formally knighted by King Charles III for his outstanding services to football and British society. The 50-year-old global icon, who featured on the King’s Birthday Honours list earlier this year, received the honour during an emotional ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday.
Beckham, dressed in a bespoke suit designed by his wife Victoria, was joined by his family — wife Victoria and parents Sandra and David — for what he described as one of the proudest moments of his life.
“I couldn’t be prouder,” said Beckham after receiving the accolade. “People know how patriotic I am — I love my country. I’ve always said how important the monarchy is to my family. I’ve been fortunate to travel all over the world, and everywhere I go people want to talk about our monarchy. It makes me proud.”
A Royal Occasion
The ceremony marked a personal milestone for Beckham, who was awarded an OBE in 2003 by the late Queen Elizabeth II. This latest recognition, more than two decades later, cements his place among Britain’s most celebrated public figures.
Beckham revealed that the King had complimented his attire, saying, “He’s the most elegantly dressed man I know, and he’s inspired quite a few of my looks over the years. This suit was something my wife made me after I looked at old pictures of him in morning suits. I told her, ‘That’s what I want to wear,’ and she brought it to life.”
The couple’s sartorial collaboration added a personal touch to a day steeped in tradition and symbolism.
From East London to Global Stardom
Born in Leytonstone, east London, Beckham rose to prominence through Manchester United’s youth academy, joining the first team in 1992. Over 11 seasons at Old Trafford, he helped the club secure six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the 1999 Champions League, before moving to Real Madrid in 2003 for £25 million.
Beckham’s club career later took him to LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, where he helped transform football’s popularity in the United States. Loan spells at AC Milan followed before he ended his playing days at Paris Saint-Germain in 2013.
For England, Beckham made 115 appearances, captaining the national side for six years between 2000 and 2006. He represented his country in three World Cups and two European Championships, scoring some of the most memorable goals in English football history.
Beyond Football
Beckham’s influence extends well beyond the pitch. He played a key role in helping London secure the 2012 Olympic Games and has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005, establishing the “7 Fund” in 2015 to protect and support vulnerable children around the world.
His long-standing commitment to public service and charity work made him a popular choice for a knighthood. In 2024, he became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, helping to promote education and environmental awareness among young people.
Beckham’s respect for the monarchy has long been evident. Following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in 2022, he queued for over 12 hours to pay his respects as she lay in state at Westminster Hall — a gesture widely praised across the nation.
A Legacy of Leadership and Grace
Today, Beckham continues to shape the game he loves from the boardroom. He co-owns League Two side Salford City alongside his former Manchester United team-mates and is also a co-owner of MLS club Inter Miami, which has risen to prominence following the arrival of Lionel Messi in 2023.
For Beckham, the knighthood represents both a personal triumph and a reflection of his enduring commitment to representing his country with dignity. “It’s something I could never have imagined,” he said. “To receive this honour from His Majesty is truly special — not just for me, but for my family and everyone who’s supported me along the way.”
From his humble beginnings in east London to a global ambassador for British excellence, Sir David Beckham’s journey has come full circle — one built on passion, dedication, and unwavering national pride.
