6 Men Who Weren't Afraid To Be Themselves

7. David Beckham

As one of the most recognisable sportspeople in the entire world, it would have been understandable if David Beckham had chosen to tow the line and keep his head down in his private (yet still very public) life. But Beckham was far from your typical sportsperson.

Off the pitch, Beckham was the antithesis of the traditional English footballer. Totally disengaged from the 'lad' culture which had previously derailed many an England starlet's burgeoning career, the winger instead pursued his own interests, chief amongst them fashion.

In stark defiance of the sport's 'masculine image', Beckham was just as comfortable being a model as he was on the ball. Setting trends for clothing, hairstyles, and cosmetics, the Manchester United star established himself as the ultimate 'metrosexual', demonstrating that men didn't have to live their lives confined to prescribed gender stereotypes.

Whilst the former No. 23's brand was unquestionably managed with absolute precision, there was little doubt about its authenticity. As much as Beckham's lifestyle made him a cultural icon, it likewise garnered undue criticism which threatened to derail his playing career. But unlike his trademark free-kicks, Beckham didn't bend once on his principles.