The former captain of the English football team, David Beckham, was honored by King Charles III of the United Kingdom with the Order of the British Empire, granting him the title of knight. It is an appointment that made one of England’s most famous footballers feel “immensely proud.”
The former player of Real Madrid and Manchester United, who celebrated his 50th birthday last month, was honored for his services to sports and charity.
“I grew up in East London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British that I never would have imagined receiving this honor,” stated Sir David Beckham.
What title will Victoria Beckham have now?
Last year, Beckham, who has described himself as a “great monarchist”, was appointed ambassador of the King’s Foundation, an educational charity created by Charles III in 1990.
In February, he appeared in a video helping to launch the search for “35 Under 35”, a network of influential people who can champion the cause of the charity organization that reflects Carlos III’s vision.
In 2003, Beckham had already received the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE).
“Having played for my country and captained it has been the greatest privilege of my career and, literally, a childhood dream come true. Outside the field, I have been fortunate to represent Great Britain around the world and to work with incredible organizations that support communities in need and inspire the next generation,” Beckham added.
Furthermore, he expressed feeling “very fortunate” and “grateful” for being recognized “for work that fills him so much”. “It will take me a while to process the news, but I am immensely proud and it is a very emotional moment that I will share with my family”, he said.
With the title of knight, his wife, Victoria, will now be known as “Lady Beckham”.
Beckham traveled to the United States for the Club World Cup.
In addition to his football career, Beckham has supported several charitable causes and in April, before turning 50, he made a call to raise funds for Unicef. Since 2005, he has been a Goodwill Ambassador for Unicef, a humanitarian aid organization, and a founding member of the board of the charity Malaria No More UK.
Currently, Beckham is a co-owner of Inter Miami in the MLS. Therefore, after meeting with the king at St. James’s Palace in London, he immediately traveled to the United States, where his team made its debut on Saturday night with a 0-0 draw against Al Ahly from Egypt in the FIFA Club World Cup.