When David Beckham signed a massive six-figure contract (5 years for $250 million most from a large share of team revenues) with the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007 it was a ground-breaking moment for the sport at home and abroad. Not since the mid-1970's when Pele was lured to the once-prominent North American Soccer League to play for the New York Cosmos had American professional soccer seen such stardom. Having played for Manchester United and Real Madrid - two of the world's top clubs - against the best competition British midfielder known for his strong right leg and deft passing ability immediately became the face of Major League Soccer and an important U.S. soccer ambassador. He took on the responsibility of increasing the sport's domestic popularity and growing the MLS brand and succeeded valiantly on both ends. He lead the Galaxy to back-to-back MLS Cup titles in 2011 and 2012 before returning to Europe. With his flashy style on and off the pitch Beckham certainly left an indelible mark on soccer in the U.S. Featured here is Beckham's L.A. Galaxy game-worn home white jersey from the 2009 season a truly rare find in the hobby.

This Adidas (size L) white long-sleeve collared pullover has three navy stripes down the sleeves and orange trim on the body. A blue Adidas logo the Galaxy logo patch and their "HERBALIFE" sponsor adorn the front. "BECKHAM" and "23" in blue letters and numbers are ironed into the back. The MLS logo appears at the base of both numerals. There is a MLS logo patch on the right sleeve and a USA flag patch on the left (both feel like velvet). Beckham would typically wear the yellow captains band on his left sleeve but it is not included with this jersey. Inside the shirttail next to the laundry tag is an Adidas manufacturers tag dated "04/09" to confirm the 2009 season in which it was issued. The jersey shows excellent game use with dirt/grass staining on the back and sleeves and some spotting on the front from either sweat or contact marks. Unlike the road Galaxy jersey featured in our Fall 2014 Premier Auction this home does not reek of Beckham's cologne but does carry an odor of sweat.

David Beckham made his highly anticipated Los Angeles Galaxy debut in 2007 bringing an world-class resume from his impressive runs at Manchester United (1993-2003) and Real Madrid (2003-07) full of English Premier League La Liga and UEFA Champion's League titles - not to mention his near-record number of Caps with England's National Team. In 2009 Beckham left the Galaxy for a few months on loan to A.C. Milan before returning for the home-stretch. The Galaxy finished atop the standings and made a deep run in the playoffs falling just short in the MLS Cup 5-4 on penalty kicks to Real Salt Lake. Photo evidence indicates that Beckham wore the home white long-sleeve style at least twice: October 24 2009 vs. San Jose Earthquakes (Getty 92337014) and August 1 2009 vs. F.C. Barcelona in an exhibition match.