David Beckham has officially been knighted by King Charles III, receiving one of Britain’s highest honours for his services to football and philanthropy.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday at Windsor Castle, marking a defining moment in the former England captain’s illustrious life both on and off the pitch.
Accompanied by his family, Beckham, 50, was bestowed the title of Sir David — more than 20 years after he received an OBE in 2003.
The recognition celebrates not just his glittering football career but also his enduring commitment to charitable causes, notably as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and more recently as an ambassador for The King’s Foundation.
“Growing up in East London with patriotic parents, I never imagined I’d receive such a truly humbling honour,” Beckham told PA after the ceremony. “To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and a boyhood dream come true.”
Beckham rose to fame as part of Manchester United’s iconic Class of ’92, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the 1999 UEFA Champions League as part of the club’s historic treble.
His career later spanned Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain before his retirement in 2013.
Internationally, Beckham earned 115 caps — 59 as captain — and is immortalised for his dramatic 2001 free-kick against Greece that sent England to the World Cup.
Off the field, Beckham’s influence extends to global philanthropy, youth development, and sports promotion through Inter Miami CF.
His long-awaited knighthood places him among football’s most revered names, joining the ranks of Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Geoff Hurst, and Sir Kenny Dalglish.
