It’s official – David Beckham has at last been knighted, marking the end of a long and often frustrating chapter for one of England’s most cherished sporting figures. The 50-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid great was honoured by King Charles III during a Windsor Castle ceremony on Tuesday.
According to palace insiders, the long-awaited accolade only materialised after Beckham met a particular condition set by the King: a greater commitment to the King’s Trust. Paul Burrell, Princess Diana’s former butler who worked with her for a decade, foresaw this outcome years ago – though he issued a small warning. Speaking to Genting Casino earlier this year, Burrell said: “Of course it [Beckham getting knighted] is going to happen. The question is, when?
“When will the King finally say it’s time for David to receive his knighthood? I think he has to put some more work into the King’s Trust, and I think he’ll be seen many more times with the King and William before that honour comes his way.”
After reportedly being irritated at previous snubs, Beckham took the advice to heart. Over the past 12 months, he has increased his charitable efforts and become an enthusiastic advocate for the King’s Trust (formerly known as the Prince’s Trust).
The organisation, which King Charles has long supported, assists young people from underprivileged communities by helping them access education, jobs, and sports opportunities – all areas that align naturally with Beckham’s global reputation.
The results of his involvement were clear to see. Beckham joined Prince William at RAF Northolt to help unveil two helicopters for the London Air Ambulance Charity, contributing to the £16million raised through the ‘Up Against Time’ campaign. He was also seen socialising with Charles and Queen Camilla at the Chelsea Flower Show, reinforcing his royal rapport.
These outings weren’t just about publicity – they symbolised Beckham’s transition from a businessman and club owner to a figure dedicated to charitable causes, echoing Burrell’s earlier advice.
Burrell once cautioned that Beckham “hasn’t earned his stripes” and lived in a “very commercial world.” By devoting himself to the King’s Trust, Beckham showed his priorities had shifted. “He’s obviously been fast-tracked for a knighthood, but not just yet – they’re keeping him just dangling for a while,” Burrell said. Now that the expectation has been met, the title is finally his.
This move also came with some distancing from old friends. Once friendly with Prince Harry – and a guest at his 2018 wedding – Beckham has since cooled that relationship.
Instead, he has “nailed his colours to the mast” alongside King Charles and Prince William, a move that appears to have cleared the path to Sir David. Rumour has it Victoria Beckham could be in line for a damehood next, particularly after Princess Kate wore one of her outfits last year – but for the moment, the spotlight is all on David.