Retired footballer David Beckham has defended his decision to wear a male sarong back in 1998, despite being mocked for his fashion statement.

The 39-year-old, who retired from professional football in 2013, has started trends throughout the years with his various hairstyles and outfits.

Despite some of his fashion choices receiving widespread criticism, the former Manchester United star has insisted that he has no regrets.

"Maybe I've sometimes overstepped the mark with something that a footballer in the past wouldn't wear, and that's led to trends or people trying new things," the Daily Star quotes Beckham as saying.

"Some people would probably look at me wearing the sarong - it's been mentioned so many times over the years, but I thought it was great. Everyone should be allowed to be who they are and dress how they want."

Beckham has entered the fashion industry for himself by creating various underwear lines for retailers H&M.