This is The Guardian.
Today, arise Sir Becks.
How David Beckham finally won over the establishment.
Here's a question for you.
Who do you think is the most famous Brit in the world?
Someone who would get mobbed on any street,
in any city, on every continent?
I think there's really only one answer.
David Robert Joseph Beacon.
He inspired presidents.
He is tough.
In fact, he is a rare man.
who can be that tough on the field and also have his own line of underwear."
married a Spice girl,
and his right foot made grown men weep.
And all throughout his career David Beckham seemed destined for one thing,
an honour reserved for Britons who make a major contribution to public life over a long period of time.
29 years after he first pulled on an England shirt,
it's finally happening.
From The Guardian, I'm Helen Pidd.