David Beckham knighthood decision made as Manchester United icon finally set for honour
The iconic former Man United and England midfielder is set to be awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours list next week.
Manchester United icon David Beckham.(Image: Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
David Beckham is set to be recognised with a knighthood in the upcoming King’s Birthday Honours list. His famous wife – Victoria Beckham – will also gain the title of Lady Beckham.
An icon, in both Manchester United and England history, Beckham will receive a long-anticipated knighthood after turning 50 last month. Having represented England on 115 occasions, Beckham’s continuous charitable contributions have not gone unnoticed, either, along with a close bond he shares with King Charles III.
At last month’s Chelsea Flower Show, a conversation between Beckham and King Charles seemingly hinted at the upcoming honour – with Charles enquiring: “You got it, didn’t you?” to which Beckham gratefully responded: “It was incredible, thank you. It was very kind.”
The legendary footballer, who now co-owns MLS franchise Inter Miami, shot to fame at United before leading his country as captain. An unforgettable goal vs Greece that secured England’s place in the 2002 World Cup highlights his illustrious playing career, but there were countless more iconic moments for club and country.
Beyond the pitch, Beckham has ventured into various realms, including stints with Real Madrid, AC Milan and LA Galaxy, prior to hanging up his boots. Widely cherished by fans, Beckham’s recent gesture of queueing to honour Queen Elizabeth II further solidified public affection for him.
The 50-year-old football icon had been eagerly-anticipating a knighthood, having not progressed beyond the OBE he received in 2003. However, his aspirations have been side-stepped until this point.
Last year, Beckham’s appointment as an ambassador for HM’s charity – the King’s Foundation – was recognised as a positive step. Beckham expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying: “I’m excited to be working with the King’s Foundation, and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work. I’ve always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons, and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the Foundation’s education programmes and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature.”
His impending knighthood places him among a prestigious group of sports figures – including United icons such as Sir Alex Ferguson and the late Sir Bobby Charlton.
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