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It's official - David Beckham has been knighted, capping off a long and often frustrating wait for one of England's most beloved sporting heroes. The 50-year-old former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was bestowed the honour by King Charles III on Tuesday at a ceremony at Windsor Castle . But insiders reveal it only happened after Beckham fulfilled one crucial condition set by the King: ramping up his involvement with the King's Trust. Former royal butler Paul Burrell , who served Princess Diana for a decade, had long predicted this moment - but with a caveat. Speaking to Genting Casino earlier this year, Burrell said: "Of course it [Beckham getting knighted] is going to happen. The question is, when? "When will the King finally say it's time for David to receive his knighthood? I think he has to put some more work into the King's Trust, and I think he'll be seen many more times with the King and William before that honour comes his way." Beckham, who was reportedly miffed at being snubbed in past honours lists, took the hint. Over the past year, he's dived deeper into charity work, emerging as an excellent ambassador for the King's Trust (formerly the Prince's Trust). This organisation, close to Charles' heart, supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through education, employment and sports initiatives - areas where Beckham's global fame shines. His efforts paid off visibly. Last year, Beckham joined Prince William at RAF Northolt to unveil two new helicopters for the London Air Ambulance Charity, helping raise £16million via the 'Up Against Time' appeal. He was also spotted schmoozing with Charles and Queen Camilla at the Chelsea Flower Show , cementing his royal alliances. These appearances weren't just photo ops, they signalled Beckham's shift from commercial ventures - like his Inter Miami MLS team - to genuine philanthropy, as Burrell had urged. Burrell had warned Beckham "hasn't earned his stripes" yet, stuck in a "very commercial world ." But by prioritising the King's Trust, Beckham proved his commitment. "He's obviously been fast-tracked for a knighthood, but not just yet – they're keeping him just dangling for a while," Burrell said. Now, with the condition met, the gong is his. This pivot also involved navigating royal family drama. Once chums with Prince Harry - attending his 2018 wedding and hosting him at Inter Miami events - Beckham has distanced himself from the Sussexes. Instead, he's "nailed his colours to the mast" with Charles and William, a move appears to have smoothed his path to Sir David. Wife Victoria Beckham might be next for a damehood, according to reports, after Princess Kate donned one of her designs last year - but for now, the triumph is David's. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
