‘He Wasn’t Just a Hero for Me’- David Beckham Says He Chose ‘23’ Only Because of NBA Legend Michael Jordan

Real Madrid, in 2003, landed David Beckham from Manchester United in a high-profile move. He spent four seasons at Real Madrid before moving to the LA Galaxy, an MLS club. He used to wear the number 7 before but switched to 23 at Madrid and La Galaxy. Michael Jordan may have been a big reason for the switch.

Real Madrid was then known for the Galactico signing. It was Florentino Perez’s first reign as President of the club. He signed many famous soccer stars during that time, and David Beckham was one of them. Beckham, in his book, shared the story of his choosing the jersey number when he signed for Real Madrid.

Michael Jordan wearing 23 inspired David Beckham to choose 23 at Real Madrid

Once the move was done to Real Madrid, the question was whether he will be getting his favorite No. 7 jersey at the club. Raul was wearing the jersey then at Real Madrid. Beckham shared the story of how he chose jersey No. 23 in his autobiography.

Beckham wrote, “On the back: 23 with ‘Beckham’ over the numerals. Nobody knew, outside the club, what my squad number was going to be. I’d thought long and hard about which number to choose from the ones that weren’t already being worn by the other players. Even Real hadn’t found out until late the previous night when I’d phoned them from the hotel with my final decision. There was a sudden burst of shutters clicking on a couple of hundred cameras. I could hear voices out in the hall: ‘Veinte y tres.’ Twenty-three. Then, a moment later: ‘Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan.’ He wasn’t just a hero for me, then.”

The club asked Beckham to choose from a few jersey numbers remaining. The first option he got was No. 23, and he made up his mind instantly. Beckham admired the NBA legend Michael Jordan a lot, and he was an inspiration to him. He has spoken from time to time about Jordan and how he has been inspiring him throughout his career.

Beckham’s failed transfer to FC Barcelona

Everyone was expecting David Beckham will join FC Barcelona from Manchester United. The two clubs went on to announce the agreement between them for the transfer. Joan Laporta, the current Barcelona President, who was also the President of the club in 2003, revealed the failed attempt to sign Beckham.

Read More: ‘The Pride Americans Take’- David Beckham Says Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Andre Agassi Have Achieved Greatness Because of One Reason

Real Madrid was keen to add the Galactico in 2003, and Florentino Perez set his sights on Beckham. He did everything possible to bring Beckham to the Bernabeu and succeeded. It was a second shock to the rivals Barcelona after Luis Figo. Barcelona went on to sign Ronaldinho in the same transfer window.

Watch This Story: Arnold Schwarzenegger vs David Beckham: Who is Endorsement King?

David Beckham made over 150 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring on 20 occasions. He won La Liga in his final season at Real Madrid. Let us know your thoughts on Beckham’s admiration for Michael Jordan and his failed move to FC Barcelona.