Guests: Episodes with David Beckham

David Beckham, born on May 2, 1975, is an English football legend renowned for his extraordinary midfield play and set-piece prowess. Beginning his illustrious career with Manchester United in 1992 at age 17, Beckham went on to win multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League trophy. Following his tenure at Manchester, he played for Real Madrid, where he won the La Liga title, before making a notable move to the Major League Soccer club, LA Galaxy. He retired in 2013, with 19 major trophies to his name.

Internationally, Beckham has been an English football cornerstone, earning 115 caps and participating in three FIFA World Cups and two European Championships. He served as England’s captain for six years, setting outfield appearance records that stood until 2016.

Beyond his football accolades, Beckham is a global football ambassador and a British cultural icon. He has received numerous individual honors, including being inducted into the English and Premier League Halls of Fame. Off the pitch, Beckham is a UNICEF ambassador and leads a UNICEF fund named “7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund.”

In terms of financials, Beckham stood as the world’s highest-paid player in 2013, with earnings exceeding $50 million. Married to Victoria Beckham since 1999, the couple has four children.

Beckham is also a significant figure in football-related business ventures. He founded the David Beckham Academy in 2005, though the academies in London and Los Angeles have since closed. He is the current president and co-owner of the MLS club, Inter Miami, which debuted in March 2020. Additionally, he owns 10% of the English non-league club, Salford City, joining his former teammates in ownership.

David Beckham is not just a retired footballer; he is an institution in both the sport and broader culture, marking his influence in competitive play, ambassadorial roles, and business ventures alike.