David Beckham was knighted. King Charles III knighted him at Windsor Castle.

Former England captain David Beckham was knighted at Windsor Castle on Tuesday by King Charles III. The British monarch recognized his contributions to sport and charity work. He can now be addressed as Sir David Beckham.

David Beckham was clearly happy and honored by the award.

"I couldn't be prouder today. People know what a patriot I am, I love my country," Sir Beckham said after the ceremony, as quoted by the BBC.

The former footballer, who describes himself as a "great royalist" , admitted that the British monarchy has always been important to his family.

“To be here and receive a knighthood from His Majesty the King is surreal,” he added.

He was accompanied to the ceremony by his wife Victoria, former Spice Girls star and current fashion designer, who from now on will bear the title Lady Beckham.

He made his Premier League debut for Manchester United in 1995 and was a member of the team that won the 1999 Champions League final, defeating Bayern Munich. He made a total of 394 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 85 goals. He later played for Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Beckham made 115 appearances for England, making him third all-time, and captained them 59 times.

He also won numerous accolades, including six Premier League titles and two FA Cups. In 2013, he announced his retirement from playing.

During his time there, Beckham supported a number of charitable organizations, including a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005.

In 2024, Beckham was appointed an ambassador for the King's Foundation, an educational charity founded by Prince Charles, now the King, in 1990.

From London Marta Zabłocka.