David Beckham Knighted in 2025 Birthday Honours; Darts Stars Honoured

In a grand ceremony celebrating exceptional public service and achievement, former England football captain David Beckham has been awarded a knighthood as part of the King's Birthday Honours List for 2025. The announcement was made on June 13, 2025, recognizing Beckham not only for his illustrious football career but also for his extensive charitable work. Beckham, who began his professional career at Manchester United, made 394 appearances and scored 85 goals for the club before his stints at Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. He is also noted for making 115 appearances for the English national team, a record that places him among the top players in the country's football history.

Beckham has been actively involved in charity work since 2005 as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, and he founded the 7 Fund, which focuses on aiding vulnerable children globally. He supports various organizations, including the Chelsea Pensioners, Help for Heroes, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Age UK, and the London Air Ambulance service.

In addition to Beckham's recognition, other notable figures from the world of sports received honors. Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy currently ranked No. 2 in the world, has been awarded an MBE for his services to darts. Littler has made history as the youngest professional player to win multiple titles, including two World Series of Darts titles and a total of 13 PDC titles, alongside being the youngest player to achieve a televised nine-dart finish.

Also awarded MBEs were Luke Humphries, the reigning world champion in darts, recognized for his contributions to the sport, and Aston Villa forward Rachel Daly, who has made significant strides in women's football, holding the joint record for the most goals in a Women's Super League season.

Billy Boston, a legendary figure in rugby league, has made history as the first player in the sport to receive a knighthood. At 90 years old, Boston is celebrated for his remarkable career, scoring 571 tries, making him the second-highest try scorer in rugby league history.

Virginia Wade, a former tennis champion, has received a CBE for her contributions to tennis and charitable efforts. Wade holds the distinction of being the only British woman to have won singles titles at all four major tournaments: the Australian Open, US Open, and Wimbledon.

The Birthday Honours List this year reflects a diverse range of recipients, from community champions to pioneers in the arts and healthcare. Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented on the significance of the awards, stating, "This year's Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country. From community champions to cultural icons, each recipient reflects the very best of Britain. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to them all."

The Honours List has acknowledged over a thousand individuals this year, focusing particularly on those who have made a substantial impact in public service and community engagement. This recognition not only celebrates personal achievements but also emphasizes the importance of service and dedication to society.