Football legend David Beckham is finally set to receive a knighthood in the upcoming King’s Birthday Honours, more than two decades after his OBE.
David Beckham to Be Knighted in King’s Birthday Honours
David Beckham’s knighthood will reportedly be confirmed next week, as part of King Charles III’s official birthday honours list. The move marks a significant national recognition of the former England captain’s contributions to football and humanitarian efforts.
The David Beckham knighthood has been long anticipated. The 50-year-old was previously awarded an OBE in 2003 for services to football and charity. This latest honour places him among the country’s most celebrated figures.
Beckham’s glittering football career spanned over two decades. He earned 115 international caps for England, captained the team for more than five years, and played for top clubs including:
- Manchester United
- Real Madrid
- LA Galaxy
- Paris Saint-Germain
- AC Milan
His unforgettable 2001 free-kick against Greece, which secured England’s spot in the 2002 World Cup, remains one of the most iconic moments in modern football.
Beyond the pitch, the David Beckham knighthood also recognises his outstanding charity work. Beckham has long been a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and, more recently, joined forces with the King’s Foundation. His focus has been on education, environmental projects, and empowering young people.
Speaking about his work with the King’s Foundation, Beckham said: “I’m excited to be working with The King’s Foundation and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work.
I’ve always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the foundation’s education programmes and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature.”
He also added a personal touch: “Having developed a love for the countryside, I’m also on a personal mission to learn more about rural skills, which is so central to the foundation’s work.
It was inspiring to hear from the King about the work of His Majesty’s foundation during my recent visit to Highgrove Gardens – and compare beekeeping tips.”
In May, Beckham appeared alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, proudly wearing the King’s Rose on his lapel – a striped variety named in honour of the monarch.
The David Beckham knighthood caps a year of royal associations. Beckham famously queued for 13 hours with the public to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II as she lay in state at Westminster Hall in 2022.
Earlier this year, Beckham received a Crystal Award at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The award recognised his humanitarian efforts and advocacy for children’s rights.
“Today, there are more children in need and at risk than any time in recent history. Girls are held back by poverty, girls are held back by violence, girls are held back by discrimination,” he said.
He added: “I’m lucky enough to be a father of three boys and one beautiful girl. I want my daughter Harper to have the same opportunities as her brothers, and that should be the case for all girls everywhere.”
Victoria Beckham to Become ‘Lady Beckham’
The honour also means a new title for his wife. Once the David Beckham knighthood is officially announced, Victoria Beckham will be referred to as Lady Beckham.
This long-awaited recognition celebrates not just Beckham’s football achievements but also his enduring commitment to philanthropy and public service. It’s a moment both fans and the nation have waited years to see.
