Knighting of David Beckham underway
Celebrating Knight Beckham: David's Long-Awaited Honor
London - After years of anticipation, soccer superstar David Beckham has finally received his knighthood inQueen Charles III's Birthday Honours list. The 50-year-old, whowas never expecting such an accolade, expressed his emotions, saying, "I'm incredibly proud, and it's an extremely emotional moment for me to share with my family."
David Beckham ascends to 'Knight Bachelor' status, a knighthood uncoupled from a specific order. As announced in the list, this honor coincides with the royal celebrations honoring King Charles III scheduled for this coming weekend. Being the long-standing captain of the English squad, also known as the Three Lions, Beckham can hereafter be referred to as 'Sir David Beckham.'
Lady Beckham rises with noted spouse
Throughout his exceptional career, Beckham has garnered numerous accolades. One of his most remarkable achievements was winning the Champions League with Manchester United against Bayern Munich in 1999. In 2003, he was previously distinguished as an 'Officer of the Order of the British Empire' (OBE).
"Representing my country and being the team captain was the pinnacle of my career and a childhood dream come true," shared Beckham. As Sir David's wife, Victoria Beckham (51), a renowned fashion designer, who gained notoriety in the 1990s as a member of the world-famous pop group Spice Girls, will henceforth be known as 'Lady Beckham.'
Victoria lauded her husband's success and offered support on Instagram. "You've always been my knight in shining armor, but now it's official," she wrote next to a photo of herself embracing her hubby. She commended his relentless dedication to his homeland, work, passion, and, most importantly, family. "But above all, I'm so proud that you're mine. I love you so much xxxx," she charmingly concluded her tribute.
A royal admirer
David Beckham nearly received knighthood in 2014 but was overlooked. This led to much speculation, particularly in tabloids, regarding the alleged reasons. Beckham was reportedly deeply discouraged by the missed acknowledgment.
The 50-year-old individual, who excels as a model, entrepreneur, football club owner, and fan of the Royal Family, braved hours-long lines following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 to pay his respects to the late monarch lying in state at Westminster Hall.
Awards are always bestowed upon government recommendation. This year's list for King Charles III's official birthday, born in 1948, encompasses 1215 individuals. Traditionally, another batch of awards is given during the New Year's celebrations. Usually, the formal presentation of knighthood or medals takes place months later by a member of the Royal Family in one of the residences.
Gongs and accolades
Likewise, actors Gary Oldman (67) and Roger Daltrey (81), the The Who's bandleader, are fortunate to celebrate their own knighthood. Oldman won an Oscar for playing British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour." He also played the legendary vampire, Dracula, in "Bram Stoker's Dracula."
The honor of knighthood is widely known throughout Germany, yet various levels exist. Unlike 'Knight Commander,' 'Knight Bachelor' does not belong to a specific order, and the title is not accompanied by post-nominal letters unless the recipient is later promoted. Beneath the knighthood, several alternative awards are available.
The joyous recipients of the summer's "Gongs" (nickname for awards given biannually) include 18-year-old darts champion Luke Littler and his rival, world number one Luke Humphries (30). Both can now refer to themselves as "Members of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire" (MBE) in recognition of their contributions to the sport of darts.
Sir David Beckham and Victoria Beckham, his noted spouse, will now be referred to as 'Sir David Beckham' and 'Lady Beckham' respectively. As the sporting world celebrates Beckham's knighthood, the entertainment sphere also honors celebrities like Gary Oldman and Roger Daltrey, who have also received knighthood.
