David Beckham has received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in the Sports Entertainment category.
The English soccer player celebrated the moment on Friday, with his fans, family and celebrity friends attending the ceremony.
“I’ve always been a dreamer, but I never could have imagined that an honor like this would come to a working-class English soccer player like me,” David said during his speech.
“I feel truly honored and fortunate to be living the American dream, so I give thanks to this country.
“To the fans that embraced us, the people that welcomed us and made our adventure so much fun. I want to thank my teammates, my friends, my team for always being in my corner and cheering me on.”
David became emotional as he thanked his wife, Victoria Beckham, their sons, Romeo and Cruz and their daughter, Harper. Brooklyn Beckham, their eldest son who has been estranged from the family, was the only one not in attendance.
“Kids, I hope you bring my grandchildren here one day and tell them about a boy who dreamed big,” David said.
“To make you all proud is my greatest achievement. I am so grateful for you all. I love you, and thank you so much for this honor, L.A. It means the world to me.”
Celebrity friend Tom Cruise and David’s wife Victoria served as the ceremony’s speakers, with the former starting off his speech by saying: “His is a Hollywood story.”
“A boy who believed in something bigger than himself, had to work for every opportunity he received and went on to influence his sport, shape culture around the world and create opportunities for generations that followed.
“The thing that has impressed me most is that success has never changed who he is. The same core values that got him there are the ones he lives by today,” he continued.
“David, congratulations to you. You earned this, and nobody, and I mean nobody, deserves it more, my friend.”
Victoria honoured her husband by praising his character.
“His drive, his determination and his ambition are known to everyone, but I’d also like to acknowledge his kindness, his loyalty and his commitment to the people that he loves.
“Whether he’s working, supporting his family and friends or the causes that he cares about, he gives it everything he’s got without ever losing sight of what matters most,” she added.
“David, I am so proud of everything you have achieved so far, but even more proud of the husband, father and person that you have always been. Congratulations, we’re so proud, and we love you so much.”
David made his debut with Manchester United in 1992 at just 17 years old and has played 11 seasons with the club until his departure for Real Madrid in 2003. He has won six Premier League titles and the La Liga title.
Following his marriage to pop star Victoria, he became a celebrity and style icon off the field, appearing on multiple magazine covers and later developed his own fragrances.
Outside his celebrity life, David is also a philanthropist, co-founding charities including Malaria No More and the Victoria and David Beckham Children’s Charity.
Images: Instagram
