David Beckham Knighted in Star-Studded Honours List
David Beckham, football icon and global philanthropist, has officially become Sir David, earning a knighthood in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours list—a long-anticipated accolade that crowns his glittering career both on and off the pitch.
The 50-year-old former England captain, known for his deadly right foot, magnetic charisma and tireless charity work, said he was “immensely proud” to receive the title for services to sport and charity.
Already an OBE since 2003, Beckham’s elevation to knighthood comes as recognition of his two-decade commitment to humanitarian causes through UNICEF and, more recently, as an ambassador for The King’s Foundation.
“I’m so lucky to be able to do the work that I do,” he said in a statement.
“To be recognised for work that gives me so much fulfilment — it’s a true honour.”
According to BBC, Beckham joins an A-list lineup in this year’s 1,200-strong honours roll, but his knighthood headlines a list that includes acting royalty, sporting prodigies, and reality TV stars turned activists.
Among them is acclaimed actor Gary Oldman, now Sir Gary, recognised for a career-defining turn as Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour and his recent hit series Slow Horses.
While the honours reflect star power, they also spotlight everyday heroes, campaigners, and community champions with 48% of recipients being women and ages ranging from 11 to 106.
Still, it’s Beckham who steals the spotlight. His journey from East London boyhood to football superstardom with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and LA Galaxy is the stuff of legend.
Yet it’s his enduring commitment off the field building football academies, promoting education, and advocating for children’s rights that earned him this highest of royal nods.
Beckham’s recognition also comes at a time of renewed public admiration, following his widely praised appearance in the Beckham Netflix docuseries, which gave fans a raw and intimate look into the pressures of fame and family life.
Also honoured were Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, both named MBEs for services to broadcasting.
Winkleman joked she’d celebrate “by doing a paso doble,” while Daly revealed she almost missed the letter, which had been sent to the wrong address.
Teen darts sensation Luke Littler, Love Island star-turned-activist Georgia Harrison, and music icon Sir Roger Daltrey were among other notable names.
But for millions of fans across the world, it’s Sir David Beckham the footballer, father, and philanthropist who stands tallest this year.
The knighthood may be new, but his status as a global role model was cemented long ago.
