David Beckham Says He “Wasn’t Nervous” but “Very Emotional” During His Long-Awaited Knighthood Ceremony
David Beckham is opening up about one of the most meaningful moments of his life — officially becoming a knight.
The 50-year-old soccer legend was honored at Windsor Castle on Nov. 4, where King Charles personally awarded him a knighthood for his services to sport and charity. Speaking with PEOPLE as part of his Verizon FIFA 2026 partnership, Beckham said the entire experience left him deeply moved.
“It’s been a very emotional week,” Beckham shared. “I wasn’t nervous — just emotional, because it means so much to me and my family.”
Calling the ceremony a “huge honor,” Beckham added that the day is a memory he will “cherish for the rest of my life.”
A Special Day at Windsor Castle
King Charles hosted the investiture ceremony, which celebrates individuals making significant contributions to the community. Beckham attended wearing a custom morning suit crafted by his wife, fashion designer Victoria Beckham. Victoria also stunned in a sleek black dress she designed for the event, styling her hair in a polished up-do.
The couple was joined by Beckham’s proud parents, Ted Beckham and Sandra West, who witnessed their son receive one of the U.K.’s highest honors.
A Knighthood More Than a Decade in the Making
Beckham’s knighthood comes more than 20 years after he received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2003. He was first nominated for a knighthood in 2011, according to The Guardian, but the formal recognition finally arrived in 2025.
Following the ceremony, Beckham posted on Instagram to celebrate the milestone.
“I have been fortunate to represent our country and I’ve always done that with pride,” he wrote. “I love our Royal Family and what it means to people not just in Great Britain but around the world. I could never have dreamed that this would happen to me.”
The honor marks another major chapter in the global icon’s legacy — from Manchester United star, to international ambassador, to philanthropist, and now, Sir David Beckham.
