One of the best, and most controversial, players of the last 20 years retires from professional football today, as David Beckham will be hanging up his cleats for the last time after this season.
Beckham, 38, has practiced his craft all over the globe, with stints in the EPL, La Liga, Serie A, MLS, and on the English National Team. The midfielder is an icon in England and around the globe, and one of the most recognizable athletes in the world. He even had a movie named after his famous ability to take spot kicks, “Bend it like Beckham” although he did not appear in the film which was about a young girl learning to play the game.
Beckham, was a winner at the club stage winning the Champions League with Manchester United in 1999, as well as 6 Premier League titles. He also won a league title with Real Madrid, with AC Milan and 2 MLS cups with the Los Angeles Galaxy before winning his final trophy, a league title with Paris Saint-Germain.
Unfortunately Beckham could not lead the English team to the same successes on the international scene, but it was not for lack of effort, as he was always willing and proud to play for his country. He was captain of the team for 6 years. Overall he won 115 caps for England, playing his first international game at just 21 years old.
Beckham said the following this morning.
“I knew every time I wore the Three Lions shirt, I was not only following in a long line of great players, I was also representing every fan that cared passionately about their country. I’m honoured to represent England both on and off the pitch. I want to thank all my team-mates, the great managers that I had the pleasure of learning from. I also want to thank the fans who have all supported me and given me the strength to succeed.”
Beckham will play the final two games of the season for Paris Saint-Germain before saying his good-byes and moving on to other pursuits.
Outside of football, Beckham married Spice Girl Victoria Adams, and the power couple have built an empire including fragrances and clothing lines. They have four children. The couple’s net worth is estimated at over £125 million.
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photo credit: Downing Street via photopin cc
