Graeme Souness has been honored with a CBE in recognition of his contributions to football and charitable efforts.

The former Rangers and Liverpool star noted that his fundraising work has allowed people to see “the real me” as he received the accolade from the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle.

During his career, Souness collected numerous trophies with both clubs, serving as both player and manager, and represented Scotland in three World Cups. Recently, he has been actively involved with Debra UK as a vice president, advocating for awareness of epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare genetic skin condition causing extreme skin sensitivity and blistering.

Souness began his work with the charity six years ago and helped raise £1.5 million for EB research through a swim across the English Channel last year. After the ceremony, he expressed his commitment to “being a decent human being,” acknowledging the emotional impact his work with affected children has had on him.

In 2023, he shared how he was inspired to take on the Channel swim challenge by meeting Scottish teenager Isla Grist, who suffers from EB. Isla’s resilience and bravery deeply moved Souness, who praised her as “the most unique person I’ve ever met.”

Reflecting on his fundraising achievements, the 71-year-old said they ranked “up there with European Cups,” a trophy he won three times with Liverpool. Souness is now preparing for a new Debra fundraising event in May 2025, where he plans to swim the Channel again, followed by a bike ride from Dover to Westminster. He also shared a lighthearted moment with the Prince of Wales, teasing him about Liverpool’s recent win over Aston Villa, the Prince’s favored team.