UNICEF Ball: David Beckham honored with Humanitarian Leadership Award

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Retired British soccer player David Beckham said he was "humbled" after receiving the Danny Kaye Humanitarian Leadership Award during the UNICEF Ball.

The global charity honored the 40-year-old soccer player Tuesday night for his ongoing work with children around the world as well as that which he does through his own charity, Seven.

During his acceptance speech, Beckham reportedly expressed his closeness to the causes he donates his time and resources to as a longtime goodwill ambassador.

"I am humbled tonight," the soccer star is quoted as saying by People magazine.

"We live in a world in which children still die of preventable diseases. Children are still being abused. I have four children of my own. I will not stop supporting this charity that does so much for so many children around the world."

After his reception of the award, Beckham posted a throwback photo from his travels, writing he was "extremely honored" to have been picked.

"I can't wait to continue doing all I can for Unicef and for my 7 fund, 7.org, to help children across the world," he wrote.

Also in attendance at the UNICEF Ball in Beverly Hills were celebrities Selena Gomez, Nicole Kidman and the night's entertainment, singer Mariah Carey.