David Beckham has received a formal knighthood. He was ceremonially knighted by King Charles III at a ceremony at Windsor Castle.
The former captain of the English national team earned the title of Sir for his excellent sporting achievements and long-term social involvement. It was awarded to him already in June on the occasion of the official birthday celebrations of King Charles III.
“Couldn’t be more proud” said Beckham, who was already awarded the Order of the British Empire in 2003, after the ceremony, to which he was accompanied by his wife Victoria and parents. “Everyone knows how much of a patriot I am, how much I love my country. I have always said how important the monarchy is to me and my family,” he added.
Fifty-year-old Beckham is among the most famous players of his generation. He has 115 starts for the national team. He won a number of trophies with Manchester United, including the treble in 1999, and also played for Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan.
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— Sky Sports (@SkySports) November 4, 2025
“Obviously I’ve been very lucky in my career to win what I’ve won and do what I’ve done. But to receive such an award, a knighthood, is more than anything I ever thought I could receive.” he said.
In addition to his sports career, Beckham has been involved in charity projects for a long time. Since 2005, he has been a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, and as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, he has been supporting programs aimed at improving young people’s access to nature since last year. As co-owner of the MLS club Inter Miami, he founded a foundation that helps the disadvantaged.
With the knighthood, Beckham joined the ranks of other sporting greats, such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Andy Murray. According to the media, Beckham was first proposed for promotion back in 2011.
