Rod Stewart’s playful remark to David Beckham about his pending knighthood—delivered in front of King Charles—now seems to be coming true.
Reports suggest that Beckham is set to be knighted in the monarch’s Birthday Honours List next week. Although the former England captain has been considered multiple times, he has yet to receive the honour until now.
Back in 2017, Beckham’s frustration over being overlooked was revealed in a leak of expletive-laden emails, which captured his irritation on the matter.
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Stewart, who was knighted in 2016 for his contributions to music and charity, used that context to tease Beckham during a ceremony where both were present alongside King Charles.
While presenting at an event celebrating ‘The King’s Foundation,’ Stewart joked, “I am also wonderfully honoured to be a knight, and David, yours is coming soon.”
With King Charles watching, Beckham responded with laughter and a shake of his head, clearly taking the comment in good spirit—even in front of royalty.
According to The Sun, Beckham is now finally expected to receive his knighthood, with his wife Victoria set to become Lady Beckham.
Beckham’s appointment last year as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation underscored his growing ties with the royal family.
Their friendly rapport was evident at the recent Chelsea Flower Show, where King Charles asked Beckham about a birthday gift. Beckham warmly replied, “It was incredible, thank you. It was very kind.”
Beyond his iconic football career—115 appearances for England, multiple league titles, and a Champions League victory—Beckham has established a significant role in football ownership as co-owner of MLS club Inter Miami, now home to Lionel Messi.
His charitable efforts are equally notable, especially his work with UNICEF. Although awarded an OBE in 2003, the knighthood has long eluded him.
The 2017 email leak complicated matters, showing alleged comments from Beckham expressing indifference toward the knighthood and frustration at the delay: “It’s a disgrace to be honest and if I was American I would have got something like this 10 years ago.”
Beckham later denied the authenticity of some messages, suggesting alterations. A close associate told the Mirror, “He does feel that he has given so much to his country. While he was frustrated in those emails, he was over it the moment he sent them. Getting the knighthood is not what his work is about. He doesn’t care if he gets a knighthood or not.”
As official honours notices are typically sent in advance of public announcements, it’s likely the Beckhams have already been informed of the prestigious upcoming recognition.