The Queen: 'She served her country with dignity and grace' - Beckham, Federer and Pele lead tributes

David Beckham joined Pelé, Jose Mourinho and Roger Federer to pay tribute to the Queen after the death of Her Majesty at the age of 96.

Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday that the UK's longest reigning monarch had passed away peacefully at Balmoral, where members of the Royal Family attended by his side.

Tributes then poured in from around the world, as some of the biggest names in the sport took to social media to pay their respects.

Former England men's football captain Beckham posted on Instagram: "I am truly saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. What an outpouring of love and respect we have seen for the Jubilee of platinum for its lifetime of service.

“How devastated we all feel today shows what she meant to people in this country and around the world. How much she inspired us with her leadership. How she comforted us when times were tough.

"Until her last days, she served her country with dignity and grace. This year, she would have known how much she was loved. My thoughts and prayers are with our Royal Family."

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Meanwhile, footballing legend Pelé tweeted: "I've been a huge fan of Queen Elizabeth II since I first saw her in person in 1968 when she came to the Brazil to show our love for football and experienced the magic of a wrapped Maracana.

"His deeds marked generations. This legacy will last forever."

Speaking after Roma's Europa League clash with Ludogorets, head coach Mourinho said: "I'm really sorry. I lived in England for many years, my family is there . I don't think there's anyone who doesn't appreciate this great woman."

Current Three Lions skipper Harry Kane described the Queen as "an incredible inspiration", while team-mate Marcus Rashford also paid tribute to the late monarch.

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer tweeted: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Royal Majesty. Her elegance, grace and faithfulness to duty will live on in history.

"I would like to send my thoughts and condolences to the entire Royal Family and to Great Britain."

“We all knew the end was near but to me our queen was like a member of our family,” said former world boxing champion Frank Bruno.

"I was blessed and blessed to meet her many times. She was the Matriarch, mother of our nation. My thoughts are with the Royal Family - sad, sad day."

Olympic Gold Medalist Mo Farah added: "My condolences to the Royal Family at this very sad time. The Queen was loved around the world and meant so much to so many.

“Meeting her has been one of the greatest honors of my life. She will be remembered for her warmth and devotion to the people of Britain throughout her reign.”