English football icon David Beckham has been honoured with a knighthood by King Charles III during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday.
When the moment came to accept the title, Beckham knew exactly what to do. He bowed on one knee, quite literally bending it like Beckham, as King Charles tapped his shoulders with a ceremonial sword, officially granting him the title Sir David Beckham.
“This is by far the proudest moment of my life,” Beckham said after the ceremony.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my career to win trophies and experience amazing things, but receiving a knighthood is something I never imagined.”
Beyond his achievements on the football field, Beckham has also remained a major public figure, from his fashion influence and model campaigns to his marriage to Victoria “Posh” Beckham of the Spice Girls, who now carries the title Lady Beckham.
His knighthood was first revealed in June on the king’s birthday honours list.
The 50 year old was recognised not only for his impact on sports but also for his long-standing charity work. Beckham has spent 20 years partnering with UNICEF and has been actively involved with a UK charity committed to ending malaria.
