England’s football icon David Beckham has officially become Sir David Beckham after being knighted by King Charles III during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday. Calling it his “proudest moment,” the 50-year-old received the honour for his contribution to football, British culture, and decades of philanthropic work.
Beckham, dressed in a tailored grey three-piece suit designed by his wife Victoria Beckham, attended the ceremony alongside her and his parents, Ted and Sandra Beckham. "It's quite a moment 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 the most respected institution in the world," Beckham said.
David Beckham described being knighted by King Charles III as a moment that eclipsed every triumph of his illustrious football career. "I've been lucky to have won things in my career and done things, and played for my country and captained my country, but, without doubt, this is the moment that makes me very proud."
The former England captain emphasized that the honour meant more than sporting glory. "For a number of reasons - not just my career, not just for the sport, but to get it for the philanthropic work I do, that's so important to me. In all honesty, it's extra special to receive a knighthood, for not just my sport but the important work I do with children." he said.
Beckham, who made his Manchester United debut at 17 in 1992, went on to win six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the 1999 UEFA Champions League, becoming one of the most decorated English players of his generation. He later joined Real Madrid, lifting the La Liga title in his final season before heading to the United States to promote football globally.
On the international stage, Beckham earned 115 caps for England and captained the national team for six years, a tenure marked by leadership, resilience, and global influence.