David Beckham: Lifetime of Achievement

David Beckham: Before Victoria, Madrid, Armani and LA

Tonight, David Beckham will receive a lifetime achievement award from the BBC.  There are few people that would argue that David Beckham has not achieved a lot in his lifetime.  Both on and off the field, he has left a dent not only on the game but he has also helped to shape the broader cultural context surrounding the sport.   But, the man is only 35.  So, why the rush?

In football, 35 might be considered ancient for the average player – but Beckham is anything but average.  His unwavering patriotism to England (both as a player and as an ambassador), professionalism, famous curling kick, titles with Manchester United in England and Real Madrid in Spain, modeling career and US ambitions have made him not only a football icon but a pop culture icon.  Given those achievements (plus others listed here and photographed here), it’s not hard to understand why the BBC decided he deserved an award to recognize his lifetime of achievement. But, the timing is a little odd considering what Beckham still has the capacity to achieve.

Yet, he is still playing professionally (LA Galaxy) and I wouldn’t be surprised if his career lasts another 35 years (though, his career as a player is probably in the twilight stage).

Despite my skepticism on the timing of the award, I’m glad to see Alex Ferguson has granted a temporary stay on his BBC ban in order to pay tribute to the player.  Will the truce last or is it back to battle stations after tonight’s award ceremony?

For those of you who cannot watch the ceremony, you can follow a live blog of the event at the BBC website here.

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Category: World Football