When the announcement came that David Beckham was coming over to play for the L.A. Galaxy, everyone interested in soccer knew it was a big deal. Not just because of the money involved, but because of the stature of the player.

In his career of seventeen years or more, he had played for only two clubs, and those among the best in the world. Revered names, those two: Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Beyond his club career, Beckham had played more than ninety times for his country, and also been its captain through the World Cup. By any standards, he has had a distinguished career.

But when he agreed to play for L.A., he was 32 years old, and most experts would agree that he might not be able to play for many more years with the energy and fire that were his characteristics. In MLS, a league that can’t match La Liga in Spain or the Premiership in England, he could play, he could be an example to younger players, he could still draw crowds, and he could make a few pennies to boot.

But now look what’s happened. He regained his place in Real Madrid’s starting squad. He worked extra hard and started to drive the team again. Beckham was so successful that he also regained his place in the England team. And to top it off, he was an essential part in Real Madrid winning the championship of La Liga yesterday. (Photos from BBC Sport.)

All of a sudden, David Beckham can no longer be looked at as being on the downside of his career. Still an international player, still world-class, he is at his best and will be coming here to display it for the crowds in North America.

Is that a publicist’s dream, or what? No caveat necessary: The Galaxy has bought itself a player able to compete anywhere in the world. What a coup! Because of Beckham’s pride and drive, L.A. got far more than they bargained for.