David Beckham described being knighted in the King’s Birthday Honours as “truly humbling” and “an emotional moment.”
The ex-England captain receives this prestigious honour alongside Roger Daltrey, the frontman of The Who, and Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman.
Additionally, singer and actress Elaine Paige, novelist Pat Barker, and former defence secretary Penny Mordaunt have been recognized with damehoods.
Sir David had a moment with the King at an event on Thursday. Pic: PA
On another note, Strictly Come Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, along with darts stars Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, are all set to receive MBEs.
Beckham previously earned an OBE in 2003 and now finally receives the title of Sir David for his contributions to sport and charity.
Although it was reported that he came close to receiving a knighthood in 2014, this was delayed due to issues raised by HM Customs and Revenue regarding a tax avoidance scheme.
“Having been raised in east London by patriotic parents and grandparents, I never imagined I would be granted such a humbling honour,” he told the PA news agency.
It has been 22 years since the former footballer received an OBE. Pic: PA
“Captaining my country was the highest honor of my career, a true boyhood dream realized,” he shared, reminiscing as a former star of Manchester United and Real Madrid.
Recently celebrating his 50th birthday, Sir David was seen conversing with the King just a day before the announcement of his honour, fulfilling his role as an ambassador for the monarch’s foundation.
He expressed gratitude for having the chance to “represent Britain globally and collaborate with remarkable organizations that uplift communities and inspire the next generation.”
Gary Oldman is also knighted. Pic: Reuters
Teenage world darts champion Luke Littler is also honored. Pic: PA
Sir David remarked, “I feel incredibly fortunate to engage in work that provides me with immense satisfaction and am thankful for this recognition.”
“It will take some time for the news to truly register, but I’m extremely proud, and it’s a profoundly emotional moment to share with my family.”
On the musical side, The Who’s singer received his knighthood at the age of 81.
Sir Roger, renowned for anthems like My Generation and Pinball Wizard, has led the Teenage Cancer Trust concert series at the Royal Albert Hall for over two decades.
Sir Roger with The Who at the recent Teenage Cancer Trust concert. Pic: PA
“It’s somewhat surreal, but I’m deeply honored to receive this, particularly for the charity work with Teenage Cancer Trust, and I actually accept it on their behalf, as this honor belongs to all the unsung heroes,” Sir Roger stated.
“This is a surreal dream come true for me, especially since the charity holds a special place in my heart.”
TV presenter Tess Daly expressed her surprise at receiving her MBE, calling it “the greatest surprise of my life.”
“I don’t think I’ve fully grasped it yet,” she shared with PA. “It came unexpectedly, and nearly did not happen as the letter was sent to the wrong address.”
“Thankfully, a kind person found me, and I had only two or three days to accept it by the time I received it.”
Strictly duo Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are also honored with MBEs. Pic: BBC/Ray Burmiston
Claudia Winkleman, Tess’s co-host on Strictly, expressed her gratitude for being recognized.
“I plan to buy a hat and take my mum when I receive the honour. I feel incredibly lucky and will celebrate with Tess by doing a paso doble,” she exclaimed.
West End star Elaine Paige, known for her performances in shows like Cats and Evita, was also honoured for her contributions to music and charity.
She revealed her shock at being made a dame, saying, “I have an array of emotions flooding in at once; I feel proud, grateful, thrilled, and surprised, and it’s a lot to process.”
Dame Elaine is involved with two charities: The Children’s Trust and The Dan Maskell Tennis Trust, which supports disabled tennis players.
Additionally, she has hosted a BBC radio show for over 20 years.
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Sir Anthony Gormley has received the rarest honour. Pic: Reuters
In total, over 1,200 individuals from across the nation were awarded honours, including Dana Strong, Chief Executive of Sky Group, who received a CBE for her services to business and the media.
Young disability advocate Carmela Chillery-Watson, at just 11 years old, is the youngest recipient after raising over £400,000 for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
At the other end of the spectrum, 106-year-old William Irwin, founder of the Coleraine Winemakers Club, received a BEM (British Empire Medal) for his community service.
Dana Strong, chief executive of Sky Group, has received a CBE. Pic: PA
Carmela Chillery-Watson, 11, is the youngest recipient on the list. Pic: PA
Notably, sculptor Sir Antony Gormley, creator of the Angel of the North, received the prestigious title of Companion of Honour for his contributions to art.
This distinction is limited to just 65 companions at any given time.
Other significant honorees include former defence secretary Penny Mordaunt—who famously held a sword during the King’s coronation—and actress Anita Dobson from EastEnders, who received an OBE.