Beckham, Thorpe & other sports stars receive the royal treatment

It’s not often that we see celebrities, dignitaries and sports icons hobnobbing with one another. Today’s much anticipated Royal Wedding brought together guests from a broad spectrum of society. Among those lucky enough to attend were David Beckham and Australian Olympic swimmer, Ian Thorpe.

So how did they secure a spot on the ultra exclusive guest list? Despite being an icon in England himself, Becks actually worked with Prince William during the country’s bid to host the 2018 World Cup. And Thorpe too has a relationship with the Prince, who has supported his charitable organization, the Fountain for Youth. Both guys caused a photog frenzy when they arrived in their dapper duds. But Beckham’s sartorial selection was interesting; he chose to wear American designer, Ralph Lauren, to the ceremony. Check them out:

Beckham and Thorpe weren’t the only sports stars to make the Royal Wedding roster. Also on hand were Sir Trevor Brooking, a former footballer who played for England and West Ham. England rugby player Mike Tindall was in attendance as well, which was great practice for him. He will marry Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II’s oldest granddaughter, in a royal ceremony of his own on July 30th.

William’s jockey pal, Sam Waley-Cohen, was there to see him tie the knot and rightfully so. He’s been credited with getting the couple back together after a brief split.

Rounding out the group that represented the sports world were England’s 2003 World Cup-winning coach, Sir Clive Woodward and Welsh rugby player, Gareth Thomas.