David Beckham becomes Sir David as King Charles III bestows the prestigious knighthood upon the football icon for his lifetime of service both on and off the pitch.

At a Glance

• David Beckham has been knighted by King Charles III for his outstanding contributions to football and charity work
• His wife Victoria now holds the title of Lady Victoria Beckham following the ceremony
• Beckham has served as a UNICEF ambassador since 2005 and recently became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation
• The football legend joins an elite group of knighted sports figures in British history
• Actor Gary Oldman and musician Roger Daltrey were also knighted in the same honors list

From East London to Buckingham Palace

Former England captain David Beckham has received one of Britain’s highest honors as King Charles III bestowed knighthood upon him during an official investiture ceremony. The honor, announced as part of the King’s Birthday Honours list, recognizes Beckham’s extraordinary career in football and his extensive philanthropic work that has spanned decades. The football legend, who captained England’s national team and enjoyed a stellar career with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and other top clubs, will now be formally addressed as Sir David Beckham.

Beckham expressed profound gratitude upon receiving the honor, reflecting on his humble beginnings. “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,” said the football icon.

David Beckham is set to be knighted and receive one of Britain’s highest honours

For the famous footballer, this is a moment of triumph — he has been a potential candidate for knighthood since 2011.

The 50-year-old will be included in King Charles III’s birthday honours list.… pic.twitter.com/9Ct9O44YHX

— First Source Report (@FirstSourceNew) June 6, 2025

A Legacy of Charity and Sportsmanship

The knighthood recognizes not only Beckham’s extraordinary achievements on the football pitch but also his dedicated service to charitable causes. Since 2005, he has served as a UNICEF ambassador, advocating for children’s rights across the globe. Earlier this year, he also accepted a role as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, further cementing his relationship with the royal family. This latest honor follows his receipt of an OBE (Order of the British Empire) from Queen Elizabeth II in 2003.

“To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career and literally a boyhood dream come true.”, said David Beckham.

The road to knighthood wasn’t entirely smooth for Beckham. In 2017, leaked emails revealed his frustration over previously being denied the honor, creating some controversy at the time. Despite this bump in the road, Beckham’s continued service and contributions to sports and philanthropy ultimately earned him this prestigious recognition. He joins a select group of football figures to receive knighthoods, cementing his place in British sporting royalty.

Stars Align at Royal Honors Ceremony

Beckham wasn’t the only notable figure honored during the ceremony. Acclaimed actor Gary Oldman received his knighthood for his outstanding contributions to drama, which include his Oscar-winning portrayal of Winston Churchill. Legendary musician Roger Daltrey of The Who was also knighted, primarily for his extensive charity work with the Teenage Cancer Trust. The honors system, while occasionally criticized as outdated, continues to recognize exceptional British citizens for their contributions to society.

Beckham’s wife, former Spice Girl and successful fashion designer Victoria Beckham, now carries the title of Lady Victoria. The couple’s long-standing connections with the royal family include a friendship with Prince William and previous interactions with King Charles. Recipients of knighthoods learn of their honor months in advance but are asked to keep the news confidential until the official announcement, adding an element of secrecy to the tradition-steeped process.