Manchester United and England legend David Beckham has officially been awarded a knighthood in King Charles’ Birthday Honours list.
Already honoured with an OBE in 2003, the former England captain has now received the UK’s highest recognition for his outstanding contributions to sport and global charity work.
“To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and literally a boyhood dream come true,” Beckham said in a statement.
“Off the pitch, I’ve been fortunate to represent Britain across the world and to work with incredible organisations supporting communities in need and inspiring future generations,” Beckham shared.
“I feel so lucky to do the work I do, and to be recognised for something that brings me so much fulfilment means the world to me. It’ll take a bit of time for the news to sink in, but I’m incredibly proud—it’s such an emotional moment to share with my family.”
Beckham earned 115 caps for England, captaining the national side 59 times. He played in three World Cups, scoring in each, and represented the Three Lions in every major tournament from 1998 to 2006. At club level, he was a key part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary Class of ’92, helping Manchester United secure six Premier League titles and the historic treble in 1999.
His club career also included standout spells with Real Madrid during the Galácticos era, LA Galaxy—where he helped boost the profile of Major League Soccer—AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain before retiring in 2013.
Beyond the field, Beckham has served as a UNICEF ambassador since 2005 and joined The King’s Foundation in 2024. He played a pivotal role in London’s successful bid for the 2012 Olympics and is now co-owner of MLS club Inter Miami CF.
Manchester United paid tribute to their former No. 7, writing: “Massive congratulations from everyone at United on this special achievement, Becks – you truly deserve this.”
Beckham wasn’t the only sports figure to be honoured in the King’s list. Rising darts star Luke Littler and world No. 1 Luke Humphries were both awarded MBEs for their contributions to the sport. Former England international Rachel Daly, part of the squad that won Euro 2022 on home soil, also received an MBE after announcing her retirement from international football in April 2024.
Olympic triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee was named an OBE, and British tennis great Virginia Wade received a CBE.
