Arise, Sir David: Beckham Knighted by the Monarch at Windsor Castle Ceremony
David Beckham was bestowed with a knighthood at the historic royal residence on Tuesday. The ex-national team leader, 50, was among those accepting honours for his services to sport and philanthropy. Earlier this year, he stated he was “extremely honored” of being recognised in the King’s birthday honours.
Soccer Achievements
Beckham made his Premier League debut for Manchester United in 1995 and was a key member that secured a dramatic European Cup win in 1999 when they defeated the German giants with two late goals.
In total, he netted 85 goals and garnered accolades including multiple English championships and two FA Cups as a soccer professional, before retiring from the sport in 2013. In addition to his sports endeavors, he has backed a number of charity causes, including acting as a goodwill ambassador for global aid group the United Nations Children's Fund since the mid-2000s.
David Beckham, with his wife Victoria, after receiving his knighthood at an honors event at Windsor Castle.
Philanthropy and Beyond
In the previous year, the sports star, who has referred to himself as a “devoted monarchist”, was named an ambassador for the royal educational charity, an non-profit organization established by the monarch in the early nineties. In 1998 he was named top fashion icon by a leading publication and he has posed for companies such as the fashion retailer, Armani, and Boss.
David tied the knot with Victoria in 1999 and the couple have four children together – their eldest, the second son, the third child, and Harper.
