From the king himself
Former football star David Beckham knighted
November 4, 2025 – 2:37 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
In 2014 he was denied a knighthood. Eleven years later, David Beckham still has reason to be happy.
A celebratory moment at Windsor Castle: David Beckham was officially knighted on Tuesday. The former England international visibly enjoyed the ceremony as a “Knight Bachelor” – a knight without religious affiliation.
Dressed in a dark cutaway suit, as seen in official photos, Beckham arrived at the ceremony. It was already announced in June that the long-time captain of the English national team would be honored with a knighthood. Since then he has been allowed to call himself Sir David Beckham – now the official award was given by King Charles III.
The 50-year-old told the British news agency PA at the time that he could never have imagined receiving such an honorable award. “I’m incredibly proud and it’s a very emotional moment for me that I can share with my family.”
Beckham has had a successful career. In 1999 he won the Champions League with Manchester United against FC Bayern – one of the greatest sporting successes of his career. He had already been awarded the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003.
“Playing for my country and being captain has been the greatest privilege of my career and a childhood dream come true,” said Beckham. Fashion designer and former “Spice Girls” singer Victoria Beckham was also honored as Sir David’s wife. She now bears the title “Lady Beckham”.
David Beckham, who in addition to his sports career is also an entrepreneur, model and football club owner, is considered a great admirer of the British royal family. In 2022, he stood in line for hours to pay his last respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who was lying in state in Westminster Hall.
Beckham was said to have been close to being knighted as early as 2014, but was ultimately not considered. Headlines about the alleged background were increasing, particularly in the tabloid media. Beckham is said to have complained bitterly about the lack of the honor.
The knighthood is probably the best-known British award in Germany – but there are several levels. In contrast to the “Knight Commander”, for example, the “Knight Bachelor” does not belong to an order. There are numerous other awards below the knighthood.