KING CHARLES KNIGHTS DAVID BECKHAM FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO SPORT AND CHARITY

By: Gyang Dakwo

England and Manchester United legend David Beckham has been knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle for his outstanding service to sport and charity.

The 50-year-old former midfielder received the honour during a ceremony on Tuesday after being named in the King’s Birthday Honours list earlier this year.

Beckham described the recognition as one of the proudest moments of his life. He said it was a very proud day for him and his family and that the monarchy had always been important to them.

“I grew up in the east end of London in a very humble family,” Beckham said. “My dream was always to become a professional footballer, play for my country, and play for Manchester United. Everything else that has come with that has been incredible, but to be honoured by the most important and respected institution in the world is a very proud day.”

He added that receiving the knighthood from His Majesty the King felt “pretty surreal.”

Beckham began his football journey at Manchester United, where he made 394 appearances and scored 85 goals before playing for Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. He represented England 115 times, which is the third-highest number of appearances by any male player, and he captained the national team 59 times.

Beyond football, Beckham has made a strong mark through charity work. He has been a UNICEF goodwill ambassador since 2005 and also set up the seven Fund to support vulnerable children around the world.

Last year, he became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, an educational charity established by King Charles in 1990.

Speaking about his philanthropic work, Beckham said, “All the things that I do, I do out of love. I do not do it because I am forced to do it, and I do not do it because I have to. I do it because it is important.”

The knighthood adds another special chapter to Beckham’s life, celebrating not only his football success but also his dedication to helping others.