Sir David Beckham and Sir Gareth Southgate were granted access to Wimbledon’s prestigious Royal Box today, marking their first appearance at the venue since receiving their knighthoods.
The two former England internationals took their seats on Centre Court to watch the opening round clash between Italy’s Fabio Fognini and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain.
Royal Recognition
Their attendance at the All England Club represents a new privilege afforded to them following their recent honours from King Charles III.
Beckham received his knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours list in June 2025 for services to sport and charity, while Southgate was knighted in the New Year Honours list.
I’m immensely proud and it’s such an emotional moment for me to share with my family,” Southgate told Sky Sports after his investiture ceremony with Prince William at Windsor Castle last week.
Swift Journey from Miami
Beckham arrived at SW19 just 48 hours after watching his Inter Miami side suffer a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in Atlanta, Georgia in the Club World Cup’s round of 16.
The former Manchester United star was sporting an arm cast following recent elbow surgery.
“I had surgery a couple of days ago,” Beckham told DAZN in a pitchside interview on Sunday. I broke my arm 23 years ago playing for England in South Africa. I had a screw put in, which needed to be taken out.”
Distinguished Company
Beckham was accompanied by his mother, Sandra, while both men engaged in animated conversation in the Royal Box.
The exclusive 74-seat enclosure also hosted England cricketer Stuart Broad and his wife, Saturdays singer Mollie King.
Princess Beatrice and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, were among other notable attendees on the opening day.
Long-Awaited Honours
Beckham’s knighthood ended years of speculation about when the former England captain would receive the honour.
Reports suggest he was first put forward for a knighthood in 2011 but was unsuccessful due to alleged tax complications.
“Growing up in east London with parents and grandparents who were so patriotic and proud to be British, I never could have imagined I would receive such a truly humbling honour,” Beckham said in a statement after his knighthood was announced.
Royal Connections
The 50-year-old’s appointment as an ambassador for The King’s Foundation in 2024 strengthened his royal connections.
During the Chelsea Flower Show in May, King Charles was overheard asking Beckham if he “received his 50th birthday present,” with sources suggesting this was a reference to the impending honour.
I’m excited to be working with The King’s Foundation and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work,” Beckham said at the time.
Southgate’s Legacy
Southgate, 54, is only the second England manager after Sir Alf Ramsey to lead the men’s team to a major tournament final.
FA chair Debbie Hewitt called him “one of our greatest ever managers” following his knighthood announcement.
The former defender guided England to consecutive European Championship finals, losing to Italy in 2021 and Spain in 2024.
Strict Protocols
The Royal Box maintains strict dress codes, requiring gentlemen to wear suits or jackets with ties.
Invitations are issued by the Chairman of the All England Club to distinguished guests from various walks of life.
Both knights appeared to relish their elevated status at one of British sport’s most prestigious venues.
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