Trend-setting

AC Milan's David Beckham of Britain is seen during their exhibition match against Hungary's All Star league team in Budapest in this April 22, 2009 file photo. [Photo/Agencies]

As well as the highs, there have been the low points for Beckham such as his sending off against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup, a cut on his face after being hit by a boot kicked by United manager Alex Ferguson and missing a penalty at Euro 2004.

But like the trend-setting haircuts that youngsters asked their barbers to recreate, Beckham's skills and personality ensured he became a brand that everyone wanted a part of.

He was a key member of the bid team that helped London win the right to host the 2012 Olympics and brought the torch by speedboat to the stadium at the opening ceremony.

There was public disappointment when he was not selected for the British Olympic team and his retirement has prompted messages from the highest quarters including British Prime Minister David Cameron.

Former United teammate Neville said he had been "the most influential player out of England in transforming football", while England manager Roy Hodgson said he had "iconic status".

Beckham's announcement comes in a big week of retirements at his former club after manager Ferguson and midfielder Paul Scholes called it a day, which is perhaps fitting in the context of his love for the club.

"If you had told me as a young boy I would have played for and won trophies with my boyhood club Manchester United, proudly captained and played for my country over 100 times and lined up for some of the biggest clubs in the world, I would have told you it was a fantasy," Beckham said.

"I'm fortunate to have realized those dreams."

After a decade at Old Trafford, he left for a four-year spell at Real Madrid where he won La Liga in his final season.

England's David Beckham celebrates his goal against Azerbaijan in their group six World Cup qualifying soccer match at St. James' Park in Newcastle in this March 30, 2005 file photo. [Photo/Agencies]