David Beckham remains one of football's most recognizable faces worldwide, even among fans who never saw him play. From Manchester United glory days to building Inter Miami into an MLS powerhouse, Beckham's influence on football spans decades.
As Becks celebrates his 50th birthday, his transformation from star player to successful businessman has been nothing short of remarkable. His estimated net worth now sits at approximately $450 million – a fortune built both on and off the pitch.
From United Superstar to Global Icon
Beckham rose to fame as part of Manchester United's legendary 'Class of '92'. He played 394 games for the Red Devils between 1992 and 2003, scoring 85 goals and becoming a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson's dynasty.
At United, he won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the 1999 Champions League as part of the historic treble-winning side. His pinpoint crosses and free-kicks became his trademark, forming a midfield powerhouse alongside Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, and Ryan Giggs.
His career path then took him to Real Madrid in 2003, where he claimed a La Liga title before making a groundbreaking move to LA Galaxy. This American adventure helped transform MLS, with Beckham winning two MLS Cups before finishing his playing days with a Ligue 1 title at Paris Saint-Germain in 2013.
For England, Beckham earned 115 caps and captained his country for six years. His journey included the infamous red card against Argentina in 1998 and redemption with that unforgettable free-kick against Greece to qualify for the 2002 World Cup.
Building the Inter Miami Empire
Beckham's most impressive current football venture is co-owning Inter Miami. He negotiated an option to create an MLS expansion team while playing for LA Galaxy, eventually launching the club in 2020.
Under his leadership, Inter Miami has quickly become one of MLS's most talked-about franchises. The club made global headlines by signing Lionel Messi in 2023, along with former Barcelona stars Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez.
These superstar signings have paid off. Inter Miami won the Leagues Cup in Messi's first season and recently claimed the MLS Supporters' Shield by topping the regular season standings. Bettors have taken notice, with Inter Miami now regularly installed as favorites for MLS Cup glory.
Away from football, Beckham's marketability remains extraordinary. His Netflix documentary became a viral sensation, particularly the moment where he playfully corrected Victoria's claim about her "working class" background.
His commercial appeal continues to thrive, with Beckham recently starring alongside Matt Damon in a Super Bowl commercial for Stella Artois directed by Ben Affleck.
The Beckham brand, built alongside his wife Victoria, has expanded into fashion, fragrances, and various business ventures. This has created one of sports' most enduring and profitable personal brands.
As Beckham enters his fifties, his influence on football shows no signs of diminishing. From transforming MLS to building Inter Miami into a global brand, his second act in football might prove just as impactful as his playing days.
