August 22 – David Beckham is to become the latest recipient of the UEFA President’s award for his contribution to football and promoting the sport in “every corner of the planet”.
The former England captain and global icon played for Manchester United, La Galaxy, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Paris St-Germain in a 20-year career.
“Beckham is a true football icon of his generation,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.
Previous winners of the award – which “recognises outstanding achievements, professional excellence and exemplary personal qualities” – include Johan Cruyff, Bobby Charlton, Franz Beckenbauer, Bobby Robson and Paolo Maldini.
Beckham, 43, made 115 appearances for England and won 19 club trophies, including 10 league titles.
“His tireless humanitarian efforts, which have helped the lives of many children around the world, should also be celebrated,” added Ceferin.
“I am proud to join the illustrious list of players who have previously won this award,” said Beckham, who is also an Unicef ambassador and now the owner of a Major League Soccer team in Miami.
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