David Beckham releases statement and shares throwback snaps as football icon celebrates 50th birthday
David Beckham has released a statement on social media as the football icon celebrates his 50th birthday.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has already enjoyed some celebrations, having hosted a star-studded bash attended by the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Tom Brady last month.
And Beckham has now released a statement on social media paying tribute to his family, while also thanking fans for their messages of support.
“As I reflect on this Birthday I’m very grateful for many things in my life the teams I’ve played for, my team-mates, managers , the fans, MY COUNTRY and being England captain, the children I have met over different charities I work with, my team in my business & the friends I have around me I feel truly blessed.
“But my biggest accomplishment is and will always be my family, my mum and dad who sacrificed so much for me to live my dream of becoming a footballer, my sisters who had to put up with following there brother around in the freezing cold watching me play football and my amazing nan and grandad.
“My wife and best friend of 28 years and my beautiful children Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz & Harper you are the reason I get out of bed each day thank you for making me smile and thank you for making me a better man.
“I love you all so much and thank you for making today so special for me… You are my world.”
Messages have poured in for Beckham in the short time since the statement was released.
Mel C wrote: “Happy Birthday DB, welcome to the club.”
Alexandre Pato, who played with Beckham at AC Milan, added: “Happy birthday my friend!”
And internet personality Rino Siconolfi said: “HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID.”
Beckham started his career at Manchester United and was a product of the club’s academy.
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy snubs £1.2million in prize money after making latest decision on golf future
He won six Premier League titles at Old Trafford, as well as two FA Cups and the Champions League in 1999.
Beckham had wanted to stay at United for the entirety of his career.
However, he was forced out of Old Trafford in 2003 after falling out with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson behind the scenes.
Beckham, at Real Madrid, didn’t add another Champions League to his collection.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Chris Eubank Jr, 35, speaks for the first time since nearly dying in Conor Benn fightDavid Beckham’s huge net worth as Man United, Real Madrid and England icon turns 50Bruno Fernandes makes death admission after Man United thump Athletic Bilbao in Europa League
He was, however, part of the team that won LaLiga in 2007 under the guidance of Fabio Capello.
Beckham left Madrid for LA Galaxy that year and won two MLS Cups during his time in Los Angeles.
He also had spells with AC Milan and PSG before retiring from football in 2013.
Beckham made 115 appearances for England, scoring 17 goals, with a stunning free-kick against Greece in 2001 fondly remembered on these shores.