The 50-year-old sportsman, whose name appeared on King Charles III's Birthday Honours list earlier this year, was knighted by the King on Tuesday at a ceremony in Berkshire.
“I couldn’t be prouder. People know how patriotic I am – I love my country. I’ve always emphasized how important the monarchy is to my family. I’m fortunate to have traveled the world, and people everywhere want to talk to me about our monarchy. It makes me proud,” Beckham said.
Beckham was accompanied to Windsor Castle by his wife, Victoria, and his parents, Sandra and David.
Beckham: A True English Legend
Beckham made 115 appearances for his country and captained the 'Three Lions' for six years between 2000 and 2006. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder also featured for England in three World Cups and two European Championships.
“I never would have thought it”
– Beckham said about the knighthood.
Beckham emerged from the United academy in 1992 and spent 11 years in the first team before moving to Real Madrid for £25 million in 2003.
He played in the Spanish capital for four years before joining LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer (MLS). During his time in Los Angeles, he had two loan spells with AC Milan before ending his career at PSG in 2013.
However, Beckham’s influence extends far beyond the football pitch. The East London-born sportsman played a role in London securing the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games.
He has worked with the humanitarian aid organization UNICEF since 2005, and in 2015, a fund was named in his honor to mark their ten-year partnership.