David Beckham has been knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle for his services to sport and charity.
The 50-year-old former Manchester United midfielder and England captain was formally recognized at a ceremony on Tuesday after receiving the King’s Birthday Honors earlier this summer.
Sir David’s wife, Spice Girl-turned-fashion designer Victoria, also attended the ceremony and is now known as Lady Beckham.
David Beckham is knighted by King Charles
Sir David Beckham was knighted at Windsor Palace on Tuesday
“It’s a very proud day for our family,” said the football star, who won 19 major trophies during his career.
“I grew up in a very modest family in the East End of London. My dream was always to become a professional footballer, to play for my country and for Manchester United.”
“Everything else that has happened along with this has been incredible, but it’s a very proud day to be honored by one of the most important and respected institutions in the world.
“The monarchy has always been very important to my family. To be here to be knighted by His Majesty the King is quite surreal.”
Beckham’s impact on and off the field
Beckham started his football career at Manchester United, making 394 appearances and scoring 85 goals, before going on to play for Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.
He played 115 games for England, the third most of any senior male player, and captained his country 59 times.
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Following Gustavo Hammer’s incredible goal for Sheffield United, relive some of the best half-line goals of all time by David Beckham, Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney and more – with each strike flying farther and farther!
Beckham has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005 and also founded the 7 Fund, which aims to support vulnerable children around the world.
Last year he was appointed ambassador for the Kings Foundation, the education charity Charles founded in 1990.
Beckham said of his philanthropy: “Everything I do I do out of love.
“Don’t do something because you’re forced to do it, don’t do it because you have to, do it because it’s important.
“I think it’s mostly because of the career I’ve had, the teams I’ve played for, the things I’ve won, the respect I’ve earned throughout my career. I think that’s why people listen to me.”
“I think this is a very powerful tool in philanthropy. I quickly realized that I could make a difference with what I said and what I participated in. I think that’s why it’s so important to me.”
