What you need to know
David Beckham has recalled the moment he was knighted, saying it was an “emotional” moment.
“It’s been a very emotional week,” Beckham, 50, told PEOPLE as part of the Verizon FIFA 2026 partnership. “I wasn’t nervous, just emotional because it meant a lot to me and my family.”
He added, “We are very honored to receive this award, and overall, it was a very special day for us. It’s a memory that we will cherish for the rest of our lives.”
The 50-year-old football icon was knighted for “services to sport and charity” at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on November 4.
The event, hosted by King Charles, recognizes individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the community.
For the ceremony, Beckham wore a custom morning suit designed by his wife Victoria Beckham, and his parents Ted Beckham and Sandra West were also in attendance.
Meanwhile, Victoria wore an elegant black dress designed for the inauguration and tied her hair in a stylish updo.
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For Beckham, the honor comes more than 20 years after he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003.
The former Manchester United star was first considered for knighthood more than a decade ago and was nominated in 2011, according to the Guardian.
Shortly after, the Inter Miami CF owner turned to social media to share his enthusiasm and gratitude for this honor.
“I was lucky to represent my country and have always done it with pride,” he wrote on Instagram. “I love the Royal Family and what it means to people not only in Britain but around the world. I never thought this would happen to me.”
