David Beckham OBE (b. 1975) contributed to nineteen major footballing trophy wins in a career where he played for Manchester United (1992–2003), Real Madrid (2003–07), LA Galaxy (2007–12) and Paris Saint-Germain (2013). He captained the English national team 58 times over a six-year period. Alongside this, Beckham has modelled extensively, appearing in campaigns for his own clothing lines, fragrances and whisky. His instantly recognisable appearance has become a desirable brand.
This close-up head-and-shoulders photograph and the accompanying contact sheet were taken by Lorenzo Agius (b. 1962) in 1998, the same year Beckham proposed to Victoria Adams, then a member of the Spice Girls. Known as ‘Posh and Becks’, their relationship has been the subject of considerable media attention ever since.
National Portrait Gallery, London.
Purchased, 2000
© Lorenzo Agius