David Beckham Receives Knighthood From King Charles’

David Beckham, the iconic Manchester United and England star, has been officially knighted in King Charles’ Birthday Honours list.

The former captain of Manchester United and England, who was previously honored with an OBE in 2003, has now been awarded the UK’s most prestigious accolade for his remarkable contributions to football and worldwide charitable efforts. “To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and literally a boyhood dream come true,” Beckham stated in a press release.

“Off the pitch, I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to represent Britain around the world and work with incredible organisations that are supporting communities in need and inspiring the next generation.

“I’m so lucky to be able to do the work that I do and I’m grateful to be recognised for work that gives me so much fulfilment. “It will take a little while for the news to sink in but I’m immensely proud and it’s such an emotional moment for me to share with my family.”

Beckham earned 115 caps for England, leading the team as captain on 59 occasions. He competed in three World Cups, scoring in each, and participated in every major tournament for the Three Lions from 1998 to 2006. At club level, he was a key member of Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary Class of ’92, contributing to Manchester United’s six Premier League titles and the historic 1999 treble.

He also played for Real Madrid during their Galacticos era, LA Galaxy—where he significantly raised Major League Soccer’s profile—AC Milan, and PSG before retiring in 2013.

Beyond football, Beckham has served as a UNICEF ambassador since 2005 and became part of The King’s Foundation in 2024. He played a pivotal role in securing the 2012 Olympics for London and is now a co-owner of Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer.

Manchester United celebrated their former No. 7, sharing: “Massive congratulations from everyone at United on this special achievement, Becks – you truly deserve this.”

Beckham was not the only prominent athlete recognized in the king’s honours list.

Darts sensation Luke Littler and world No. 1 Luke Humphries both received MBEs for their contributions to darts, as did former England international Rachel Daly, who was part of the Lionesses’ victorious Euro 2022 campaign on home soil. She announced her retirement from international football in April 2024.

Olympic gold medalist triathlete Alistair Brownlee was awarded an OBE, while British tennis icon Virginia Wade received a CBE.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli