David Beckham to Receive Knighthood in King Charles' Birthday Honours

David Beckham to Receive Knighthood in King Charles' Birthday Honours

Former England football captain David Beckham is expected to be awarded a knighthood in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours, recognizing both his legendary football career and his continued service to British society.

Beckham, now 50, was previously appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003. BBC Sport reports that he is now set to receive higher recognition, with the official list of honorees due to be released next week.

Throughout his illustrious playing career, Beckham earned 115 caps for England and starred for clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan before retiring in 2013.

Although nominated for a knighthood back in 2011, the process appeared delayed, particularly after leaked emails in 2017—published by several British newspapers—showed Beckham expressing frustration with the honours system. At the time, his spokesperson said the emails were “hacked,” “doctored,” and “private.”

Beyond football, Beckham has made substantial contributions off the field. He was instrumental in helping London secure the 2012 Olympic Games and has served as a Unicef Goodwill Ambassador since 2005. In 2015, the David Beckham Unicef Fund was launched, marking ten years of his support for vulnerable children worldwide.

In 2024, Beckham was named an ambassador for The King's Foundation, backing King Charles’ initiatives focused on education and environmental awareness among young people.

Additionally, Beckham is involved in football at the grassroots and professional levels as a part-owner of Salford City and as president and co-owner of Inter Miami CF in the U.S. His Inter Miami CF Foundation aims to uplift underserved communities through football-based programs.

While government sources have not confirmed the honour, and Beckham’s representatives have declined to comment, anticipation is growing that the football icon will soon be known as Sir David Beckham.