MLS Commissioner Don Garber has hailed David Beckham for his contribution to the growth of football in the USA.
The 37-year-old has announced that he will leave Los Angeles Galaxy after the MLS Cup final in December, but insists that he wants to remain part of the club.
"When David Beckham signed with the LA Galaxy in 2007, he set out to help grow MLS and the sport of soccer in North America," said Garber.
"There is no doubt that MLS is far more popular and important here and abroad than it was when he arrived.
"David has achieved great things on and off the field during his time with the Galaxy, and he will always be an important part of our history. We look forward to his continued involvement with the LA Galaxy and the league."
Beckham joined Galaxy from Real Madrid in 2007 and won the MLS Cup in 2011.