David Robert Joseph Beckham, OBE, is easily the most popular footballer and athlete in the world. He is a retired former midfielder and winger, who specialised in set-piece delivery.
Popularly known simply as David Beckham and often as Becksie or Golden Balls, Beckham is a retired former world famous football player who played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, LA Galaxy, and England.
Beckham is observed as a world football icon whose fame and significance outreach the footballing sphere. Known worldwide for his exquisite free-kicks and crosses, Beckham is a household name across the world. He was runner-up twice for the FIFA World Player of the Year and in 2004 was the world’s highest-paid footballer. Beckham was Google’s most searched of all sports topics in 2003 and 2004.
Club Career
Beckham developed first at the youth academy of Brimsdown Rovers and then Manchester United. He signed a professional contract with the latter and made his first team debut in 1992 when he was only 17 years of age. He made his UEFA Champions League debut for Man United on December 7, 1994, against Galatasaray at Old Trafford and scored a goal too.
Beckham made his Premier League debut for Manchester United against Leeds United on April 2, 1995, in a goalless draw. He scored a scintillating goal against Wimbledon on August 17, 1996 (the opening day of the 1996-1997 Premier League season) from inside his own half.
Beckham went on to establish himself with Manchester United and gain worldwide fame and popularity. He played for the Red Devils until 2003, scoring 62 goals in 265 Premier League matches. With Man United, Beckham won the Premier League title six times, the FA Cup twice, and the UEFA Champions League in 1999.
Beckham was signed by Real Madrid in the summer of 2003 for 35 million euros. Beckham played for Real for four seasons and won the Spanish first division in the 2006-2007 season. He scored 13 goals in 116 league matches and was one of the most consistent players for the Merengues in those trophy barren, boardroom-chaos filled years.
Beckham moved to LA Galaxy in the summer of 2007 on a contract that was reported to fetch him $250 million. He struggled with poor form and injuries and couldn’t really take the MLS by storm as he had hoped to do.
International Career
Beckham made his international debut for England on September 1, 1996, against Moldova in a World Cup qualifier. He has played in over 100 international matches for his nation and played at the 1998, 2002, and 2006 World Cup finals. He was the captain of the England national team from November 15, 2000, to July 2, 2006.
Personal Life
David Beckham is married to Spice Girl Victoria Beckham. The couple have three sons and currently reside in Beverly Hills, California.
