Sir David Beckham was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday, coinciding with the launch of the United States-hosted segment of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The ceremony took place in Los Angeles, where eight World Cup matches are scheduled to be held.

In a departure from the traditional Hollywood red carpet, organizers laid a green soccer-themed pitch carpet in recognition of Beckham’s career and contributions to the sport. The event featured remarks from actor Tom Cruise and Beckham’s wife, Victoria Beckham, with radio host Ellen K serving as the emcee.

Cruise described Beckham’s career as a "Hollywood story" marked by perseverance, determination and a significant cultural impact across sport and entertainment. Victoria Beckham highlighted the timeliness of the recognition as the U.S. soccer scene enters "one of the most exciting chapters in its history" amid growing interest fueled in part by the World Cup.

Beckham, who took the podium to accept the honor, called the recognition "surreal," reflecting on his East London upbringing and initial dreams of playing soccer. He acknowledged early skepticism surrounding his decision to join Major League Soccer’s LA Galaxy in 2007, a move that many questioned given the sport’s relatively late rise in America.

Now president and co-owner of Inter Miami CF, Beckham expressed pride in the sport’s development within the United States. Addressing his children, he became emotional, expressing hope that they would one day share his story with future generations as a testament to dreaming big and achieving pride.

Over a two-decade professional career, Beckham played for several prestigious clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, LA Galaxy and Paris Saint-Germain. Known primarily as a right midfielder, he earned acclaim for his precise passing and crossing ability and is widely regarded as one of soccer’s all-time greats.

Beyond the pitch, Beckham’s influence extends into popular culture, with projects such as the Netflix docuseries “Beckham,” which details his soccer journey, and “Victoria Beckham,” focusing on his wife’s transition from pop star to fashion entrepreneur. The 2002 film “Bend It Like Beckham” was also inspired by his legacy.

Since retiring from professional play in 2013, Beckham has maintained a global presence through endorsements and partnerships with major brands including Adidas, Bank of America, Hugo Boss, Stella Artois and Sands.