When did David Beckham retire from football? Details explored as he gets honored with Knighthood on King Charles’ birthday

David Beckham has officially retired from football. He stopped playing in May 2013, just after winning a title with Paris Saint-Germain, and his retirement marked the end of a 20-year career at top clubs in four countries. As of now, on June 14, 2025, he has been honored with a knighthood by King Charles III. This special honor was a grand part of the King’s birthday celebrations. Beckham is being recognized for his long time of playing football and his charity work.

Beckham is now formally called Sir David Beckham. His wife, Victoria Beckham, is now known as Lady Beckham. Beckham's knighthood is an important milestone, as he finished playing more than a decade ago. Now, his official title is a clear sign of the high value placed on his life’s work and public service.

David Beckham's Retirement: When and How It Happened

David Beckham played football professionally for 20 years. He began his senior club career in 1992 with Manchester United. He played for Real Madrid in Spain. He then moved to LA Galaxy in the United States and had loan spells with AC Milan in Italy. Lastly, he joined Paris Saint-Germain in France in 2013. In May 2013, he announced he would retire from football at the end of that season.

Once he retired, David Beckham did not disappear. He bought a part of Inter Miami CF and became president. He also owns a part of Salford City FC in England. He earned many wins in his career. With Manchester United, he won six Premier League titles and a Champions League title. With Real Madrid he won the La Liga. He won two MLS Cups with LA Galaxy and a league title with Paris Saint‑Germain. In total, Beckham played 115 games for England and was captain in many. He retired as one of the most loved footballers in world history.

David Beckham's Knighthood Honor: Why and When It Came

On June 14, 2025, David Beckham was named a knight in the King’s birthday honors list. The honor comes from King Charles III. Beckham is honored for his football career and charity work. Beckham said,

"I'm so lucky to be able to do the work that I do and I'm grateful to be recognised for work that gives me so much fulfilment. 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."

This is not Beckham’s first time being honored. In 2003, Queen Elizabeth II gave him an OBE—Officer of the Order of the British Empire. The knighthood is a higher honor. It gives him the title "Sir" and allows Victoria to use "Lady Beckham." Beckham is not the only sportsman honored this year. Singer Roger Daltrey and actor Gary Oldman also received knighthoods. The honors are part of a list given each year on the King’s birthday. More than 1,200 people received awards this year. Many were chosen for their public service.

Knighthood does not include money, a house, or power. It is a title that shows respect. It tells people the country honors your work. Beckham said the honor makes him proud of his parents and heritage. He has also worked in charity. He has been a UNICEF ambassador since 2005. He became ambassador for The King's Foundation in 2024.

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