Former England football captain David Beckham has been officially knighted by King Charles III, describing the honour as the “proudest moment” of his life.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday at Windsor Castle, where the 50-year-old football icon received the title of Sir David Beckham in recognition of his contributions to sport and charitable causes.
Beckham, who earned 115 caps for England and played for top clubs including Manchester United and Real Madrid, said: “This is without doubt my proudest moment.
“It’s quite something for a boy from the East End of London to be here at Windsor Castle, being honoured by His Majesty the King, the most important and respected institution in the world.”
Dressed in a grey suit designed by his wife, Victoria Beckham, the former midfielder attended the ceremony with her and his parents, Ted and Sandra.
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Victoria, a former Spice Girl, now carries the title Lady Beckham.
Beckham shared a lighthearted exchange about his attire, saying the King inspired his look: “He’s probably the most elegantly dressed man I know. I looked at old pictures of him in morning suits and thought, ‘That’s what I want to wear,’ so I told my wife, and she made it happen.”
Reflecting on the journey to his knighthood, Beckham said: “I’ve been lucky in my career to win what I’ve won and do what I’ve done, but to receive an honour like this, a knighthood, is beyond anything I ever imagined.” He added that he had “always been a huge fan of the monarchy.”
Beckham’s knighthood marks a new milestone in a career that has transcended football, establishing him as a global figure in sport, fashion, and business.
Reports indicate that he had been under consideration for the honour years earlier following his role in London’s successful bid for the 2012 Olympic Games, but his nomination was delayed amid a tax-related review, from which he was later cleared.
