Reward for ditching Prince Harry?: King Charles to bestow knighthood upon David Beckham after years of waiting

After more than ten years of waiting and several close calls, David Beckham seems to finally be ready to be given the title of knight by King Charles III. This highly expected honor announced as part of the King’s Birthday Honours list, marks the high point of a long and impressive career filled with both unmatched success in sports and a deep commitment to charity work.

Playing 115 times for the England national team further proved his impact on the sport. Beyond his skills in the field, Beckham showed a sharp business sense, forming partnerships and building brands across different industries. But Beckham’s legacy goes much further than football.

His dedication to helping others has been a constant throughout his life. As reported by The Sun and People, he has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2005, working to improve children’s lives around the world.

Then, of course, there are rumors of his rift with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, how they all used to be friends, but it all fell apart after the duke had accused the Beckhams of leaking stories to the press after they left the Royal family, and how they got cozy with the younger Beckhams, who are reprotedly tangled in family issues of their own with David and Victoria Beckham. Amid all this drama, news of Charles bringing David onto his side has only hyped up the rumors and hinted that the footballer is only getting the “royal” treatment since he is now at odds with his former buddy.

Does David Beckham deserve the honor?

Beckham’s future title, Sir David Beckham, is a personal achievement and a recognition of his important role in British society and his lasting positive influence. Beckham’s football career lasted eighteen years, during which he played in four countries: England, Spain, the United States, and France. His time at Manchester United, especially his famous goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon and his part in their historic 1999 treble-winning season, made him a true legend.

His efforts with the charity include setting up the 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund, showing his long-term support for their mission. More recently, he became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, helping their work in building sustainable communities and creating opportunities for young people. This role also lets him combine his personal interest in gardening with the Foundation’s programs teaching rural skills.

This knighthood would come after years of nominations and unexpected delays. Beckham was first considered for the honor in 2011, thanks to his key role in securing the 2012 Olympics bid. However, reports suggest his application was held back because of his involvement in a tax avoidance plan, something many well-known figures faced at the time. This delay, along with other near misses, like being overlooked in the 2022 New Year Honours, only increased the public’s interest in when he would finally receive the title.

The knighthood also arrives at a time when the Beckham family seems to be in a better place after reports of past disagreements. The news is likely a happy moment for the family, especially after recent tensions with their oldest son, Brooklyn, and his wife, Nicola Peltz. His dedication to helping others has been a constant throughout his life, exemplified by his and Victoria’s $1 million donation to UNICEF to support Ukrainian children amid the ongoing crisis.