Ahead of next spring's induction ceremony, the US Soccer Hall of Fame is expected to consider David Beckham for enshrinement, and columnist Pablo Iglesias Maurer argues the Englishman thoroughly merits a place. The hall has long admitted foreign-born figures who shaped the American game, from Pelé and Franz Beckenbauer to Steve Zungul, on the principle that a significant contribution to soccer in the United States, not US nationality, is what qualifies someone for entry. Beckham's case rests on this same tradition, and the author contends his impact on Major League Soccer's growth was even more far-reaching than that of earlier foreign stars.

The comparison drawn is with Pelé, whose 1977 arrival transformed the sport's profile in America but preceded a near-collapse of the professional game within seven years. Beckham's spell at LA Galaxy from 2007 to 2012 delivered two league titles and two Supporters' Shields alongside Landon Donovan, but his broader legacy lies in prompting MLS to create the "designated player" roster rule to accommodate his signing, a change that reshaped the league's structure. He also drew large crowds of new fans and remained involved after retiring, going on to found Inter Miami, now home to Lionel Messi. The Hall of Fame inducts members as players, veterans or builders, and the article argues Beckham's contribution spans more than one of these categories.