David Beckham has been awarded a Knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours for his services to sport and charity.
The 50-year-old previously received an OBE in 2003 but has now received further recognition in the latest honours.
Beckham represented England 115 times, 59 as captain, while playing for Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, LA Galaxy and Paris Saint-Germain at club level before retiring in 2013.
He has been an ambassador for children’s charity Unicef since 2005 and also helped secure the 2012 Olympics for London.
In 2024, Beckham became an ambassador for The King’s Foundation, supporting King Charles’ education programme.
Beckham said: “Growing up in east London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British, I never could have imagined I would receive such a truly humbling honour.
“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.
Sir David Beckham
Congratulations to our former captain, who has been awarded a Knighthood for his services to sport and charity! pic.twitter.com/G9zypNBgHx
— England (@England) June 14, 2025
“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.”