Why Is David Beckham Included in the King Charles III Honours List?

David Beckham has longed for many years to receive knighthood and was even appointed as an Officer Of The Order Of The British Empire (OBE) in 2003. The former England captain enjoyed domestic success at Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan. However, it is his story with England's national team which is inspiring. Beckham was a player to look forward to during the matches with England's national team since he was very influential in attacking situations whilst playing for Manchester United, often scoring, assisting, and creating attacking chances consistently.

Why Was David Beckham Named in King Charles III Honours List?

However, everything went downhill during a FIFA World Cup match against Argentina in the 1998 edition when Beckham was sent off after a kick at Diego Simeone. Later on in the same match, England lost on penalties, and the fans were full of hatred towards Beckham, and even the manager at the time, Glenn Hoddle, blamed him openly. However, Beckham showed up in style at the 2001 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Greece at Old Trafford. England were 2-1 down and possibly had to face Ukraine in a play-off match to qualify for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, but England could qualify directly if they drew the score. England received a free-kick in the 93rd minute, and Beckham stepped up to score a beautiful goal from 25 yards out and send the Three Lions to the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

By the time he retired, Beckham had earned 115 caps for England, became an even bigger brand and a global influence, became an ambassador of UNICEF since 2005, became an ambassador of The King's Foundation, donated to a lot of charities, and helped London secure the 2012 Olympics. David Beckham could have appeared in King Charles III honours list or earned the knighthood title early on in his career, but was caught up in a tax scheme alongside other big names, which hindered his progress.

However, David Beckham is set to be awarded knighthood next week, which will make him “Sir David Beckham” and his wife Victoria Beckham “Lady Beckham”. The midfield maestro from England, who was once their most hated player for a short stint, not only worked hard to become one of their most respected and loved legends but also to earn the title of knighthood despite facing rejection in 2011.

Which Footballers Have Been Awarded Knighthood Before David Beckham?

A Manchester United legend, namely David Beckham, will join fellow United legend Sir Bobby Charlton alongside others in the list of players who have received knighthood. Here's the list of the players who have received knighthood due to their contribution to football, national success, charities, and communities, and global influence.