UEFA is set to honour former England captain David Beckham for his achievements in the game and his ‘tireless humanitarian efforts’ since retiring as a player. The European governing body will award the Manchester United icon with the UEFA President’s Award for 2018.
The 44-year-old has enjoyed a trophy-laden career during his stints with Europe’s elite clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan and La Galaxy, before hanging up his boots in 2013.
Beckham, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to have graced the beautiful game, described it as an “honour” to be awarded the UEFA President’s Award for 2018.
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David Beckham was known for his astonishing free kicks and for his ability to turn the game on its head! Such was his impact, that he clawed the Red Devils from the jaws of defeat in the 1991 Champions League final against Bayern Munich. During his glittering career, he won six Premier League titles with the Manchester United and continued his exploits by winning further league honors with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain and two MLS Cups with LA Galaxy.
Post-retirement, Beckham has been involved in lots of charitable work by helping the lives of many children around the world. Incidentally, he is also UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassador with a special focus on its Sports for Development program.
The recipient of last year’s UEFA President’s Award was former Italy star and AS Roma legend Francesco Totti. Other past winners of the award include Franz Beckenbauer and the late Johan Cruyff. The award will be given out on August 30, when the group stage draw of UEFA Champions League 2018/19 will take place.
The UEFA announced their three-man shortlist for the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award, with new Juventus boy Cristiano Ronaldo, Liverpool star Luka Modric and Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric set to compete for the accolade. Surprisingly, Barcelona skipper and two-time winner Lionel Messi failed to make the shortlist, despite enjoying another successful season with his club.