Sir David Beckham: Man United legend reacts as he receives knighthood from King Charles | OneFootball

Legendary Manchester United midfielder David Beckham sent a message expressing his pride after he formally received a knighthood from King Charles.

Beckham knighted

Earlier this year, Beckham was named on King Charles’ Birthday Honours list for his football career and contributions to British society.

Beckham, who was capped 115 times by England, was knighted by the King during a ceremony in Berkshire on Tuesday.

The ex-United man bent on one knee as the King performed the duty with a ceremonial sword.

Beckham was accompanied by his wife, Victoria and his parents, Sandra and David, at Windsor Castle.

After the occasion, a delighted Beckham could make no secret of his delight at formally being knighted, highlighting the feat as perhaps his greatest ever accomplishment.

Beckham’s statement

The 50-year-old told reporters [as quoted by United’s official website], “The monarchy has always been very important in our family – my grandparents, my parents, my kids, myself, the royal family have always played a huge role and I’ve always had huge respect for them.”

“Especially when I travel around the world and people want to talk to me about our royal family, and that shows how much respect people have. To be here today, to receive a knighthood from His Majesty, the King, it’s pretty surreal.”

“I was just hoping I would get it all right! You get walked through it and told what the protocol all is and obviously, to see His Majesty, the King stood there and receiving me and being as elegant and charming as he always is, it’s such a special moment.”

He continued, “I think obviously being told I had the honour was a special moment. I’ve been lucky to have won things in my career and done things, and played for my country and captained my country, but, without doubt, this is the moment that makes me very proud.”

“For a number of reasons – not just my career, not just for the sport, but to get it for the philanthropic work I do, that’s so important to me. My charity work has always been work that I don’t have to do. I do it because I love doing it, I do it because I make a difference and we make change and, in all honesty, it’s extra special to receive a knighthood, for not just my sport but the important work I do with children.”

“It’s nice to have six Premier League titles and obviously a few other medals along the way, but this, without doubt, will be pride of place.”

“I cried when I first found out and possibly for a few months after it as well. But this week has been really emotional. Being back in London and obviously in the lead-up to this day, it’s not been stressful. I’ve not been nervous, I’ve just been emotional – I get that from my mum!”

Beckham explained that his emotions come from his journey.

He talked about his humble background, from growing up in East London to now receiving the greatest honour in the country.

Feature image Rich Storry via Getty Images

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