The soccer legend’s knighthood comes 10 years after he was first put forward for the honorary title
Congratulations are in order for Sir David Beckham!
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the soccer legend, 50, was knighted for his “services to sport and charity” in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. King Charles hosted the event, which recognizes individuals for their outstanding contributions to the community.
The former Manchester United star will now be known as Sir David Beckham, and his wife Victoria Beckham will be referred to as Lady Beckham.
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David looked polished in a custom-made morning suit, while joined by Victoria and his parents, Ted Beckham and Sandra West.
Victoria, meanwhile, wore an elegant black dress that she designed for the investiture ceremony and tied her hair into a stylish up-do.
For Beckham, the honor comes more than two decades after he was appointed an officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003.
The former Manchester United star was first put forward to receive a knighthood over 10 years ago, with a nomination in 2011, according to The Guardian.
When it was confirmed that David would be receiving the honor back in June, Victoria shared her pride at the moment with a gushing social media post. “You’ve always been my knight in shining armour, but now it’s official. Sir David Beckham!! What an honour, I couldn’t be prouder of you,” she wrote.
Long known for his charitable work with UNICEF, Beckham signed on as ambassador for the King’s Foundation last year in a campaign to inspire young people into careers in horticulture.
“I’m excited to be working with The King’s Foundation and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work,” David said in a statement at the time.
He continued, “I’ve always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the Foundation’s education programs and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature.”