David Beckham is one of England's most famous and fiery footballers, who has caused controversy as well as brought his teams to victory. His career began when, much to his parents' delight, he signed on with Manchester United and made his debut at the tender age of 17. Although he was still quite young, he brought the team Premiership titles six times, helped the team win the FA cup two times and the UEFA Champions League in 1999. He became a sports hero quite early, but he also attracted jeers and well as cheers for some of his antics on the field.

David Beckham gained fame in England when he made a famous goal in a tight match against Wimbledon. The Wimbledon goal keeper had been standing slightly away from the net, and Beckham took the opportunity and made a kick, scoring a goal at 57 yards, which was the longest in Premiership history.

David Beckham went with Manchester United to the FIFA World Cup in 1998, but team manager Glen Hoddle accused Beckham of not applying himself to the game and he was not allowed to start for the team. However, he redeemed himself when he was finally allowed to play and made a long kick against Columbia, scoring one of England's two goals for the game in a 2-0 victory.

Beckham's future with England seemed uncertain when he was accused of fouling Diego Simeone, who later admitted that he overreacted to a kick by Beckham to secure a penalty goal for the team. The penalty goal turned out to be decisive and lost the game for England. Beckham was vilified, burned in effigy in England and his photograph was placed on many pub dartboards.

However, Beckham continued to secure victories for Manchester United in spite of his controversial status. With United, he helped win the treble; Premier League, FA CUP and Champions League, which was a singular accomplishment in the world of English sport. Beckham nevertheless continued to court controversy and was sent off after an intentional foul at Manchester United's World Club Championship.

David Beckham and Manchester United eventually parted ways in 2003 and he left and signed up for Real Madrid in 2003. After four seasons with Real Madrid, during which the team was awarded the La Liga championship in 2006-7, Beckham signed on with the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007. The deal was quite good for Beckham, because the contract has made him the highest paid MLS player in history. What was Manchester United's loss has been Galaxy' and Beckham's gain.

David Beckham has not waned in popularity since his rookie season with Manchester United in 1992. In 2003-04, he was the most "Googled" sports story, and he doesn't show any signs of retreating from the public eye. His personal life has also caused some raised eyebrows with hints of affairs he has dismissed. He continues to be considered a great sportsman world-over as well as a top celebrity and sought after spokesman on commercials and the subject of fashion ads.