If you’ve been a longtime follower of the blog, my love for David Beckham is not unknown. I’m a fan, pure and simple. From him as a person, to him as a role model, style icon and father, he’s just a damn cool guy. He’s had one hell of a career, belonging to a small group of athletes who’ve transcended their sport to become a global superstar. Michael Jordan did it with basketball, Roger Federer in tennis, and Tiger Woods in golf. These stars are not just defined by their sports, but have built up a brand around themselves. But David Beckham trumps them all. Globally he is an icon. A pin-up star. A footballing superstar. And the epitome of the ‘family man’. Brand Beckham is a multi-million dollar business that covers fashion, sports, charity, and even soft drinks.

I mean, OK, there have been some questionable partnerships; Reuters reports Beckham was one of Pepsi’s key ambassadors for 10 years featuring in some of the brands most memorable (read: hilariously cheesy) adverts. Remember the team of superstars led by Beckham in the middle ages? Or how about taking on Sumo wrestlers? No? Here’s a refresher: