New Delhi: Former England captain David Beckham has been knighted in recognition of his great contributions to the game of football and his long-standing commitment to charitable causes. The 50-year-old English football icon was officially named in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours list announced on Saturday and has now joined the ranks of legendary British sports personalities such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Andy Murray.
“Sir Beckham”, who earned 115 international caps during his playing career for England, is widely hailed as one of the most influential footballers of his generation. During his prime, Beckham was known for his pinpoint crosses and deadly accuracy from free-kicks, having played a pivotal role in Manchester United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson, clinching six Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy as well.
In his storied club career, he represented some of the biggest teams in the world. After a famous fallout with Ferguson, Beckham was transferred to Real Madrid in 2003, becoming part of the Galácticos. He later moved to the LA Galaxy in the United States, also making some loan stints at AC Milan before culminating his playing journey at Paris Saint-Germain in 2013. Beckham scored 127 goals in over 700 appearances across all competitions.
Sir David Beckham 🏴🤩
Congratulations to our former captain, who has been awarded a Knighthood for his services to sport and charity! pic.twitter.com/G9zypNBgHx
— England (@England) June 14, 2025
Sir David Beckham. 🏅
The former @ManUtd star and Premier League Hall of Famer has received a knighthood for services to Sport and to Charity! pic.twitter.com/ydSu2ddfsJ
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 14, 2025
Sir David Beckham 🤩
Massive congratulations from everyone at United on this special achievement, Becks — you truly deserve this ❤️🏴#MUFC pic.twitter.com/Brf9kcAdmi
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 13, 2025
A long wait, an emotional moment
The knighthood has been bestowed upon Beckham two decades after he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003. His wife, Victoria Beckham, who is a singer turned fashion designer, also holds the same honour for her influence on the fashion industry.
Beckham has long been involved in humanitarian work, which is equally appreciable. He has been serving as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador since 2005, focusing on the welfare of children globally. Also, he works closely with the King’s Foundation, promoting environmental education and spreading awareness among the young generation.
Beckham was getting snubbed for the honour over the years, but a long wait has finally come to an end. After the official list was announced, an emotional Beckham said it is indeed “truly humbling” to get the knighthood.
More to follow…
David Beckham was officially included in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours list on Saturday for his long-standing commitment to the sport and charity over the years. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today