David Beckham formally invested as knight by King Charles III at Windsor Castle
Former England captain David Beckham was officially invested as a knight by King Charles III at Windsor Castle Tuesday for his services to sport and charity.
November 4, 2025 - 11:58 AM ET • 2 min read
LONDON — Former England and Manchester United star David Beckham was formally invested as a knight by King Charles III during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, receiving the title "Sir David Beckham" for his decades of contributions to sport and charitable causes.
The 50-year-old former footballer, who was accompanied by his wife, designer Victoria Beckham (now known as Lady Victoria), and his parents, Ted and Sandra, knelt before the monarch to receive the distinction. Following tradition, King Charles III touched Beckham's shoulders with the flat of a sword during the symbolic protocol ceremony.
Beckham described the moment as "surreal" and the "moment of greatest pride" in his life.
"For a young man originating from the neighborhoods of East London, to be here in Windsor Castle, honored by His Majesty the King, the most important and respected institution in the world, is truly a great moment," Beckham said following the investiture.
The honor recognizes Beckham's extensive career in football, which included captaining the England national team, and his significant work in philanthropy. The recognition was initially announced in June, with the official ceremony taking place Tuesday.
Sir David was dressed in a grey three-piece suit, which was custom-made by his wife. He noted that the suit was inspired by the King's own style.
"I looked at old pictures of [King Charles] when he was quite young in morning suits and I was like 'OK, that's what I want to [wear]," Beckham said.
He added that the King was "quite impressed" with the attire. "He's the most elegantly dressed man that I know, so he inspired quite a few of my looks over the years and he definitely inspired this look," the former player stated.
The ceremony at Windsor Castle, a historic site often used for major royal events, officially conferred the title upon the former athlete, who had previously expressed humility regarding the recognition.
"After growing up in East London with parents and grandparents so patriotic and proud to be British, I never could have imagined receiving such a truly humble honor," he had stated when the recognition was first announced.