David Beckham receives knighthood in King’s birthday honours list

Football icon David Beckham has been recognised in King Charles III Birthday Honours list for 2025, with a knighthood for services to sport and charity. The now 50-year-old was appointed an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) back in 2003 and was reportedly first nominated for a knighthood in 2011, but that did not come to anything.

Then in 2017 several British newspapers printed details of leaked emails in which Beckham allegedly criticised the honours system and the honours committee. A spokesperson for ex-England captain said at the time his emails were “hacked” or “doctored”.

He finally gets the honour of becoming a “Sir” and his reaction was one of real pride: “Growing up in east London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British, I never could have imagined I would receive such a truly humbling honour; it will take a little while for the news to sink in; but I’m immensely proud and it’s such an emotional moment for me to share with my family,” the former Manchester United and Real Madrid superstar said.

Twice a year individuals are recognised, either in the New Year’s Honours list, or the Birthday Honours list and are awarded by the King following recommendations by the prime minister, senior government ministers and members of the public.

Commonly awarded ranks are: Companion of Honour – Limited to 65 people. Recipients wear the initials CH after their name. Then it is either a Knight or Dame; this is followed by a CBE – Commander of the Order of the British Empire; and then the OBE – Officer of the Order of the British Empire and the MBE – Member of the Order of the British Empire.

This time around, 1,200 people are on the main honours list, which has been issued by the Cabinet Office. The list features a range of well-known names, including from the arts, politics and sports, but it is primarily made up of people being recognised for their work in the community, including campaigners and fundraisers.

Actor Gary Oldman and Roger Daltrey – frontman of rock group The Who – are two of the more high-profile names receiving a knighthood; and former England fast bowler Devon Malcolm received an OBE for his services to cricket and to diversity in cricket

From the world of darts the teenage sensation Luke Littler, who became the youngest ever PDC World Darts Champion, also was awarded an OBE. “This is an amazing and unexpected honour but one which I am very grateful for. To receive a recognition like this is something I had never thought would be possible, and it is a proud moment; it’s unbelievable and I’m happy, my family is happy and I can’t wait to receive it,” said the overwhelmed 18-year-old.

It is not just UK citizens who receive the distinguished awards, and Antigua and Barbuda saw two of its nationals honoured for Service and Philanthropy.  Cordel Eden Alexander Josiah and Mr. Daniel Harrison have been formally recognised for their “exceptional service and contributions to the nation and the wider Commonwealth”.

Mr Josiah, who has a career spanning decades in the public service, receives the OBE for his outstanding contributions to public administration and community development. He played a pivotal role in strengthening institutional governance and community engagement in Antigua and Barbuda.

Mr Harrison has been given an MBE to recognise his “unwavering commitment to philanthropy”. He has “significantly impacted health, education, and youth empowerment initiatives, leaving a lasting legacy of generosity and civic responsibility”, through his years of charitable work, both locally and across the Commonwealth.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne commended both the men for their exemplary service, noting that their recognition is not only a personal achievement, but a reflection of the values and potential of the people of Antigua and Barbuda. “These awards underscore the global impact of Antiguans and Barbudans who dedicate their lives to public good.

“On behalf of the nation, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Josiah and Mr. Harrison for their well-deserved honours.”