Ask Onix
David Beckham formally knighted for football and public service
Former England football captain Sir David Beckham was officially knighted by King Charles on Tuesday in a ceremony at Windsor Castle, recognizing his contributions to the sport and British society. The 50-year-old, named in the monarch's Birthday Honours list earlier this year, called the moment "something I could never imagine."
"I couldn't be prouder," Beckham said after the event. "People know how patriotic I am-I love my country. I've always said how important the monarchy is to my family. I'm lucky enough to have traveled the world, and all people want to talk about is our monarchy. It makes me proud."
Family and fashion at Windsor Castle
Beckham was accompanied by his wife, Victoria Beckham, who received an OBE in 2017 for her work in fashion, along with his parents, Sandra and David. Victoria designed the bespoke suit her husband wore for the occasion.
"King Charles was quite impressed with my suit," Beckham remarked. "He's the most elegantly dressed man I know, so he's inspired quite a few of my looks over the years-and definitely this one. I looked at old photos of him in morning suits when he was young and said, 'That's what I want.' I gave the idea to my wife, and she made it."
A career beyond the pitch
Beckham's football legacy includes 115 England caps and six years as national team captain (2000-2006). He played in three World Cups and two European Championships, rising through Manchester United's academy before high-profile stints at Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan (on loan), and Paris Saint-Germain, where he retired in 2013.
Off the field, he helped secure the 2012 London Olympics and has been a Unicef ambassador since 2005, with a fund established in his name in 2015. He also queued for over 12 hours to pay respects to Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and now supports the King's Foundation as an ambassador, promoting youth education and nature initiatives.
Business ventures and legacy
Beckham co-owns League Two's Salford City with former teammate Gary Neville and holds a stake in MLS club Inter Miami. His knighthood follows an OBE awarded by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003.
"It's special to be here, to celebrate and hear the stories people share."
David Beckham, after Queen Elizabeth II's lying-in-state (2022)
