Princess Kate Middleton preparing for a big comeback public outing next week. She’s thrilled to be supporting one of her other favorite events – Wimbledon! That’s because the world’s most famous tennis tournament starts on July 3. In another royal twist, the Princess of Wales has been conspicuously absent from any public sighting since Garter Day, June 16th. Speculation about her health has mounted since she cancelled all public engagements, especially following her pull out from Royal Ascot last week.
Wimbledon is near and dear to Princess Kate’s heart. She’s a huge lifelong fan of the sport of tennis. Indeed, she was so committed to the sport that she even learnt at the exclusive Hurlingham Club in Fulham and indulged in the practice herself. The Middletons, the Princess’s family, have a famous friend in tennis icon Roger Federer. This personal connection deepens her bond with the sport.
Last year, Kate received a standing ovation on Centre Court after presenting Carlos Alcaraz with the winning trophy following his victory against Novak Djokovic. She missed the fun, drama and atmosphere of the all-women’s singles final. Instead, Wimbledon chairwoman Debbie Jevans was forced to give the trophy on her behalf. One year, back when she was very pregnant with Prince George in 2013, Kate skipped Wimbledon altogether.
Further, she demonstrated her contrition in a missive to Andy Murray after his triumph in the 2013 men’s final. She wrote,
“I have watched Wimbledon, that was very much part of my growing up. It’s such a quintessential part of the English summer, and I think it really inspires youngsters, myself, it inspired me when I was younger to get involved in the game. It hasn’t changed either, I think that’s what’s so wonderful.”
Her first appearance at Wimbledon, which Princess Kate is expected to attend next week, has already created a buzz of interest among tennis fans and royal watchers. In 2021, she showed her enthusiasm for the sport when she challenged Emma Raducanu to a tennis match. This thrilling contest was played as part of an event run by the LTA Youth Programme at The National Tennis Centre in London.
“Sorry for not being there, but huge congratulations.”
As Wimbledon approaches, many believe that Princess Kate will not only attend but engage with the event as she has done in years past. Her presence in public life and the advocacy over equity and justice that she represents has left such a void that her return is sure to fill it.
As Wimbledon approaches, many believe that Princess Kate will not only attend but also engage with the event as she has done in years past. Her absence from public life has left a void that her return is sure to fill.
