Over the years, the late Queen Elizabeth II has knighted some of the world’s most famous sports figures for their contributions and achievements in their chosen athletic discipline. Getting a nod from Her Majesty and the rest of the world is one of the highest honours that many people strive for. People who have been knighted are trailblazers and leaders in their fields, and when you visit TonyBet, you can still feel some of their legacies in the sports industry.
Who’s to say that, as revered and recognised as they are, they don’t rest and unwind by playing some of the most popular online casino games? After all, everyone could use a break from their job, which is one of the reasons why people all over the world appreciate the ease of an online casino.
Who is Eligible to be Knighted?
While there is still some uncertainty about who can be knighted, let us clarify. To be knighted and given the titles “Sir” or “Dame,” you must be a British citizen. Non-British nationals, on the other hand, can be recognised for their achievements with an honorary award.
American honorary knights include Bill and Melinda Gates, George H.W. Bush, and Angelina Jolie, who is one of the most well-known knighted celebrities.
In no particular order, we will focus on sports stars who may proudly claim knighthood or damehood on this list.
Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson was most likely exposed to this generation of football fans once he was knighted. As a result, soccer fans frequently inquire, “When was Sir Alex Ferguson knighted?” In 1999, he was knighted for his dedication and contribution to the beloved game. He rose to popularity as the manager of Manchester United, a team whose numerous successes have been credited to him and his abilities.
Dame Ellen MacAurther
Dame Ellen MacArthur was knighted in 2005, following her solo round of the globe, making her the youngest person to earn this honour. Her Majesty called her achievement “remarkable.” Three years later, in 2008, she was also named a Knight of the French Legion of Honour, France’s highest honour.
She is still regarded as one of the best sailors to have emerged from the United Kingdom, and she has received numerous more honours over her remarkable sailing career. In 2010, she also established the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Sir Alastair Cook
Sir Alastair Cook, who was knighted in 2019 for his contributions to cricket, has built a reputation for himself despite his youth. He was 34 years old at the time and England’s all-time leading run-scorer and most-capped player.
Sir Andy Murray
Although he has declared publicly that he does not support athletes being knighted for their achievements, the legendary tennis player was knighted in 2016. This was four years before he officially stated his thoughts on knighthood.
During his remarkable career, he was ranked number one in the world by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) for 41 weeks. He also holds three Grand Slam singles victories, including two at Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016, as well as one at the US Open in 2012.