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David Beckham's most iconic haircuts during his soccer career© Getty Images

David Beckham’s most iconic haircuts during his soccer career

From mohawks to meticulously groomed pompadours, Beckham’s ever-evolving hairdos have made headlines as often as his goals


Shirley Gomez
Senior Writer
OCTOBER 10, 2023 11:40 AM EDT

During his soccer career, David Beckham has left an indelible mark on fashion and grooming, becoming not just a football legend but also a style icon. He has sported various iconic hairstyles that have inspired countless fans and even launched a few trends.

From mohawks to meticulously groomed pompadours, Beckham’s ever-evolving hairdos have made headlines as often as his goals. This article will take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to revisit some of David Beckham’s most iconic haircuts.

UEFA Champions League Soccer - Rapid Vienna v Manchester United - Press Conference© GettyImages

The Curtained Fringe (1996)

David Beckham’s hair journey began with the famous “Curtained Fringe.” This look, popular in the mid-‘90s, featured longer hair at the front, parted in the middle to frame his face. This haircut became synonymous with Beckham during his early Manchester United days and began his transformation into a style icon. It was a quintessential ’90s hairstyle that inspired countless young fans.

Villa v Man Utd David Beckham© GettyImages

The Buzz Cut (2000)

In 2000, David Beckham shocked the world by ditching his signature longer locks in favor of a buzz cut. According to the Netflix documentary, “Beckham,” this style wasn’t approved by the then Manchester United coach, with whom David had a rocky relationship. The buzz cut was a stark departure from his previous classes, but it showcased his chiseled jawline and allowed fans to focus on his incredible skills on the pitch. This haircut symbolized Beckham’s transition from the boy-next-door look to a more mature, sophisticated appearance.

International Soccer - Friendly - England v Mexico - England Press Conference© GettyImages

The Mohawk (2001)

Perhaps one of the most talked-about haircuts in football history, David Beckham’s mohawk in 2001 was bold and daring. The sides were shaved close to the scalp, leaving a narrow strip of longer hair down the center. This audacious hairstyle drew attention both on and off the pitch, solidifying Beckham’s reputation as a trendsetter in sports and fashion.

Claudio Villa Archive© GettyImages

The Faux Hawk (2003)

Building on the success of his mohawk, Beckham embraced the faux hawk in 2003. This style featured shorter sides, but the central strip of hair was slightly longer and styled upward, creating a faux hawk effect. The faux hawk was a more refined take on the mohawk and appealed to a broader audience, making it one of Beckham’s most enduring looks.

Soccer - Real Madrid - David Beckham© GettyImages

The Shaggy Hair (2006)

During his time with Real Madrid, Beckham sported a shaggy, messy look that exuded casual charm. This hairstyle was characterized by longer, tousled hair that perfectly complemented his rugged good looks. It departed from his previously well-groomed styles and showed that Beckham could effortlessly switch between different looks.

SOCCER: MAY 15 MLS - Los Angeles Galaxy White House Reception© GettyImages

The Pompadour (2010)

In 2010, David Beckham adopted the classic pompadour haircut, giving him a suave and sophisticated appearance. This style featured short sides and a neatly combed, voluminous top, making him look like a modern-day gentleman both on and off the pitch. The pompadour haircut reinforced Beckham’s status as a style icon and further cemented his place in fashion.