David Beckham surprised a singing superstar who was anxious upon meeting the England and Man United hero
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 06: Sir David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami CF, arrives at the stadium prior to the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final match between Inter Miami CF and Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Chase Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
David Beckham attended a One Direction concert with his children several years ago(Image: Rich Storry, Getty Images)
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Former One Direction star Niall Horan has admitted he felt extremely anxious ahead of his first encounter with David Beckham. The Manchester United icon swiftly put the singer at ease with his characteristic warmth, however.
The 32-year-old Horan spoke about meeting the former Real Madrid midfielder during an appearance on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast alongside United legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, and comedian Paddy McGuinness.
When asked which footballer was the most high-profile to attend a One Direction performance, Horan immediately responded: "Becks." He continued: "The whole family came to the gig."
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Scholes enquired whether Horan had been scanning the crowd for the England legend whilst on stage, to which he replied: "I was definitely looking for him. Becks has that... he's a f*****g handsome b*****d isn't he?"
Reflecting on their introduction, he continued: "We didn't know what to think. It was bonkers. He came in before the gig to say hello, and I've met him a few times since and he's such a nice fella, but you build it up in your head don't you? But you get there and he's just a lovely fella."
Shortly after the concert, which took place at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles in 2013, Horan eagerly shared his thoughts on X, formerly Twitter. He wrote: "Met our footballing hero! Mr David beckham! He brought the boys and his little girl to see us! What a Nice Man! So courteous!".
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 14: (L to R) Liam Payne, Niall Horan, David Beckham and Ellie Goulding attend the private launch of David Beckham For H&M Swimwear at Shoreditch House on May 14, 2014 in London, England.
Liam Payne, Niall Horan, David Beckham and Ellie Goulding attend the private launch of David Beckham For H&M Swimwear at Shoreditch House on May 14, 2014 in London(Image: David M. Benett/Getty Images for H&M))
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The respect appears to be reciprocated. In 2015, Beckham sent the band a video of himself lip syncing to One Direction's chart-topping track 'Steal My Girl'.
He subsequently praised the group, which included Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik and the late Liam Payne, who tragically died in October 2024.
In the video, Beckham said: "Boys, what can I say? Five years and you've given so much to so many people. Unbelievably talented but more importantly unbelievable guys. Congratulations – five years of incredible moments."
One Direction receive an award
The band was active between 2010 and 2016, with Horan far left(Image: WireImage)
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The band was assembled on The X Factor in 2010 and went on to achieve global fame. They ultimately disbanded in January 2016.
Horan has subsequently pursued a solo career and has shown his passion for football and golf. The Irish singer was seen at Liverpool's Premier League fixture against United in October 2025.
He also entered into business with Liverpool's owners Fenway Sports Group, partnering with the Americans when the organisation acquired a franchise in the Technology Golf League. The league is led by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, with the franchise named Boston Common Golf.
Discussing the deal in 2024, he said: "Golf has been a lifelong passion of mine and I'm thrilled to be part of this exciting new venture alongside my investment group, Greenbridge Ventures, in partnership with Fenway Sports Group and Rory, who has been a long-time friend."