After more than a decade of anticipation, David Beckham has finally been knighted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle marking the end of a 13-year wait for one of Britain’s most beloved sporting figures.
The 50-year-old former England captain received the Knighthood for services to sport and charity, watched proudly by his wife Victoria Beckham and his parents, Ted and Sandra.
Beckham now officially Sir David Beckham smiled broadly as he accepted the honour, which has long been rumoured but repeatedly delayed.
A Long Road to Knighthood
Beckham was first nominated for the honour back in 2011, after helping to secure the London 2012 Olympic Games, but his nomination stalled following his involvement in a widely publicised tax avoidance scheme, which he later resolved.
Although he retired from football in 2013, Beckham continued his global influence through philanthropy and ambassadorial work. His finances were cleared by HMRC several years ago, paving the way for his long-awaited recognition.
Earlier this year, Beckham said he was “immensely proud” to be considered, calling it “one of the greatest honours” of his life.
Royal Recognition
King Charles reportedly gave Beckham a knowing hint earlier this year during their meeting at the Chelsea Flower Show, where the footballer serves as an ambassador for The King’s Foundation.
As they chatted, the King smiled and asked, “You got it, didn’t you?”
Beckham replied: “It was incredible, thank you. It was very kind.”
That exchange now seems to have confirmed what many suspected — his knighthood was already on the way.
From OBE to Sir David
Beckham previously received an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II in 2003 for services to football, with Victoria and their sons Brooklyn and Romeo watching on at Buckingham Palace.
Now, more than two decades later, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has received the ultimate royal honour. His wife Victoria will now be formally styled Lady Beckham.
A Legacy Beyond Football
Beyond his 115 England caps and glittering football career, Beckham’s work off the pitch played a major role in the honour. He has long been active in philanthropy — from his support for UNICEF and malaria prevention initiatives to his more recent role as a charity ambassador for The King’s Foundation.
Beckham and Victoria, now a global fashion designer, are estimated to have a combined net worth of £500 million yet both continue to work closely with charities and social initiatives.
As “Golden Balls” himself put it in a previous interview, “Football gave me everything this country gave me everything and I just want to keep giving something back.”
