After years of waiting and countless calls from politicians and sports stars, soccer’s golden boy is finally getting his due recognition.
Former England captain David Beckham is set to be awarded a knighthood in King Charles‘ Birthday Honors list, bringing an end to a decade-long wait for the country’s highest honorary title. Beckham, who turns 50 this year, will officially become Sir David Beckham when the honors are announced next week, according to multiple British media outlets, including the BBC.
The Manchester United legend previously received an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003. However, he has awaited this higher recognition for both his illustrious soccer career and extensive charitable contributions to British society. His wife Victoria will reportedly take the title Lady Beckham following the announcement, ESPN reports.
Beckham earned 115 caps for England, serving as captain for 59 of those appearances. He remains the only English men’s player to score at three different World Cups. His club career spanned some of soccer’s most prestigious teams, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. Beckham retired in 2013.
Years of Advocacy and Near Misses
The soccer icon was first nominated for a knighthood in 2011 after playing a crucial role in securing London’s successful bid for the 2012 Olympics. However, various factors delayed his recognition over the years. This includes a brief controversy over leaked emails in 2017, in which Beckham criticized the honors system, BBC notes.
Politicians and fellow sports figures have spent years advocating for Beckham’s knighthood. These groups have recognized both his sporting achievements and significant charitable work. Many expected the honor to arrive in 2022 after he spent 13 hours standing in line with the public to pay respects to Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin. But he was again left waiting.
Charitable Legacy Outside Soccer
Beckham’s contributions extend far beyond the soccer field, with two decades of dedicated charitable work influencing the honors committee’s decision. He has served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005. In 2015, the organization launched “The David Beckham UNICEF Fund” to mark their decade-long partnership, BBC reports.
More recently, Beckham became an ambassador for The King’s Foundation in 2024. The charity supports educational programs and efforts to connect young people with nature. “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,” Beckham shared.
His charitable work includes founding membership in Malaria No More’s leadership council, supporting the Poppy Appeal during COVID-19 lockdowns, and regular visits to organizations that support children with disabilities. Currently, he co-owns Major League Soccer team Inter Miami and League Two side Salford City. Beckham has also established the Inter Miami CF Foundation to empower underserved communities through the sport of soccer.
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