For David Beckham, the moment he’d quietly hoped for—and once loudly ranted over—has finally come true.
The former England captain has officially been knighted by King Charles, a recognition that’s been a long time coming.
And for Beckham, the honour is more than just a title.
It’s emotional. It’s humbling. And yes—it’s a little surreal.
Years ago, his hopes of being named “Sir David” were dashed when a tax dispute flagged his nomination in 2014.
Emails leaked at the time showed Beckham venting in frustration, calling the decision-makers all sorts of names (his camp later blamed hackers).
But that’s now in the rear-view mirror.
Beckham, now the face of Inter Miami, has finally joined a pretty exclusive club of football legends who’ve been knighted.
Let’s take a walk through history and meet the other icons who’ve received the same royal nod.
The First Football Knight: Sir Charles Clegg
Back in 1927, Sir Charles Clegg became the first man associated with football to receive a knighthood, even though it wasn’t directly for the sport.
Clegg wore many hats: former player, chairman and president of the FA, and one of the founders of Sheffield United.
He also took part in the very first England vs. Scotland match in 1872.
Though knighted for his civil service, his impact on football is undeniable.
Sir Hubert Ashton: More Cricketer Than Footballer
It wasn’t until 1959 that another football-connected figure was knighted.
But in truth, Sir Hubert Ashton was more at home on the cricket pitch.
He had just a handful of Football League appearances and played for clubs like Bristol Rovers and Gillingham.
His real legacy was in cricket and politics, where he served as a Conservative MP. He received his knighthood for political and public service.
Sir Stanley Matthews: Honoured While Still Playing
Sir Stanley Matthews holds a unique title—he was knighted while still playing football.
Known as “The Wizard of the Dribble,” Matthews wowed fans with his skill and astonishing longevity.
He played top-tier football at 50 and represented England until age 42. His name is etched into history for his sportsmanship and style, and he was knighted in 1965.
Sir Alf Ramsey: The Man Who Brought Football Home
Sir Alf Ramsey needs little introduction. The only manager to lead England to a World Cup win in 1966, Ramsey became a national hero.
He was knighted in 1967 and had also earned praise for lifting Ipswich Town from the third tier to top-flight champions before taking the England job.
Sir Matt Busby: Triumph After Tragedy
After guiding Manchester United to European glory in 1968, Sir Matt Busby was knighted.
He rebuilt the team from the heartbreak of the 1958 Munich air disaster.
The ‘Busby Babes’ legacy lived on through stars like George Best and Bobby Charlton.
Busby’s resilience and leadership earned him a rightful place among football royalty.
Sir Walter Winterbottom: England’s First Manager
Sir Walter Winterbottom was a pioneer. England’s first national team manager, he led the squad to four World Cups over 16 years.
Injury ended his playing days early, but he went on to inspire a generation of coaches and players.
Knighted in 1978, his legacy is commemorated at St. George’s Park.
Sir Bobby Charlton: A Legend on Every Front
Sir Bobby Charlton survived the Munich disaster and went on to become one of England’s most decorated players.
He won the World Cup, European Cup, Ballon d’Or, and scored over 200 goals for Manchester United.
Knighted in 1994, Charlton remained a symbol of class and commitment in football.
Sir Tom Finney: The Preston Plumber Who Made History
Known as the “Preston Plumber,” Sir Tom Finney spent his entire career at Preston North End.
He played through the war years, worked side jobs to support his family, and still dazzled on the pitch.
After earlier honours, he was knighted in 1998, long after his playing days ended.
Sir Geoff Hurst: The Hat-Trick Hero
No one will forget Sir Geoff Hurst’s hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final.
He became the only man to score three goals in a World Cup final and later earned a knighthood in 1998.
Beyond England, he also had a prolific career with West Ham.
Sir Alex Ferguson: The Mastermind of Manchester
In 1999, after leading Manchester United to an iconic treble, Sir Alex Ferguson was knighted.
The Scottish manager’s 27 years at Old Trafford brought 38 trophies and countless memories.
His earlier work with Aberdeen also broke the Celtic-Rangers dominance in Scotland.
Sir Bobby Robson: The Gentleman of the Game
Sir Bobby Robson’s knighthood came in 2002.
He was beloved both for his passion and for his success with England, Ipswich Town, and European clubs.
Always respected, Robson brought grace to management and was an ambassador for the sport until his death.
Sir Trevor Brooking: From Midfield Maestro to FA Leader
Sir Trevor Brooking was more than just a West Ham legend.
After a solid playing career and a stint in punditry, he took on important roles in UK sports development and administration.
He joined the FA in 2004 and was knighted that same year.
Lord Ian Botham: More Cricket Than Football
Though mostly known for his cricket heroics, Lord Botham qualifies due to his brief stint with Scunthorpe United in football.
His knighthood in 2007 was for his cricketing excellence and charitable efforts—not his handful of Football League appearances.
Sir Kenny Dalglish: Liverpool’s Heart and Soul
Sir Kenny Dalglish was honoured in 2018 for his incredible service to football and charity.
A beloved figure at Liverpool, Dalglish helped the city through the aftermath of Hillsborough and raised millions with his wife Marina.
His playing and managerial success speaks for itself.
Sir Gareth Southgate: The Modern Face of English Football
Finally, in 2025, Gareth Southgate was knighted after stepping down as England manager.
His leadership brought a new spirit to the national team, guiding them to a Euro final, a World Cup semi-final, and a sense of pride fans hadn’t felt in years.
A New Chapter for Beckham
Now, with his name officially added to the list, Sir David Beckham is in legendary company.
From the glamour of his playing days to his current role as Inter Miami’s owner and global ambassador for the game, the knighthood feels like a fitting full-circle moment.
It took time. It came with drama. But for Beckham, it was worth the wait.