David Beckham to be made knight after decade-long wait
During next week's celebrations of King Charles III's official birthday, a former English footballer, David Beckham, will be "knighted." He will take the title of Sir, while his wife Victoria will become a Lady.
The announcement of the accolade did not necessarily come as a shock, as David Beckham has been in line to become a knight for more than a decade. An English footballer played in 115 matches for the England national team, while captaining the squad for almost six years. After retirement from professional football, Beckham gained popularity as a philanthropist, focusing mostly on charity work aimed at improving the lives of disadvantaged children.
Beckham is also an official ambassador for the King’s Foundation. The organization's mission is to "provide education, public services and consultancy," in sectors such as education, agriculture, architecture, and arts. Footballer's main focus lies in fundation's efforts directed toward protection of the environment. Beckham is an outspoken nature lover and an avid beekeeper.
David Beckham was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003 and was reportedly nominated for a knighthood in 2011 following his role in securing London’s successful bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games. However, his path to the honor was stalled due to his involvement in a tax avoidance scheme, an allegation from which he was cleared four years ago.
King's official birthday celebration
While King Charles III was born on November 14, his official birthday celebrations are typically held on a different date. For the past two years, King Charles III's birthday was celebrated on the third Saturday of June, while this year's festivities will be held on the second Saturday of June, on June 14.
