David Beckham has been knighted at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, receiving the honour for his services to sport and charity. The former Manchester United and England footballer, who was made an OBE in 2003, was announced as a recipient in King Charles' Birthday Honours list in June.
The 50-year-old played a key role in securing the London 2012 Olympics, has been a Unicef ambassador for two decades, and has worked with The King's Foundation since 2024. During the ceremony, Beckham knelt on his right knee as the King or a royal family member touched his shoulders with a ceremonial sword.
Speaking in June, Beckham said: '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.' He added that he was 'immensely proud' and that the news was an emotional moment to share with his family.
Beckham's wife Victoria will now be known as Lady Beckham. The knighthood comes after years of speculation, with reports that leaked emails in 2017 criticising the honours system had delayed the recognition.
