Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, shared a lighthearted story about a memorable experience at Wimbledon involving her father, Michael Middleton. Kate is a big fan of tennis and regularly visits the UK’s most illustrious prize with husband Prince William. They even occasionally bring their kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, to join in the good times.
Over the years, the Duchess has developed strong relationships with various players and officials at Wimbledon, frequently expressing her fondness for the sport. Her family’s involvement with tennis extends beyond just watching matches. They have cultivated a tradition of attending Wimbledon together, enhancing their connection to the game.
Kate hasn’t had to do it alone. On several occasions, Michael Middleton has joined her in the Royal Box, as has Kate’s mother, Carole Middleton. The inclusion of her family members during these events adds a personal touch that further humanizes Kate’s Wimbledon experience. Even her younger sister, Pippa Middleton, has been seen sitting next to Kate at matches.
In a recent interview, Kate described one such mortifying moment that had her rolling on the floor laughing. She recounted a time when she and her dad walked right by former tennis great Pete Sampras.
“My father is not going to appreciate this, but we were walking past Tim Henman and we had just seen [Pete] Sampras play,” she shared. “My dad said very coolly: ‘Hi Pete’. I was mortified!” This is just one example of how fun family comradery punctuates the glitz and glamour of the fun-filled tournament week.
The Duchess’s passion for the game blossomed in childhood, and it still shines through her today. In 2021, she played a game of tennis with British star Emma Raducanu during an event organized by the LTA Youth Programme at The National Tennis Centre in London. Kate’s enthusiasm for the sport is palpable, reflecting not only in her attendance at matches but in her engagement with emerging talent.
Prince George and Princess Charlotte have already made their Wimbledon debut. This year, though, it will be 7-year-old Prince Louis who steals the show by making his debut at the tournament! He’s an avid tennis fan in his spare time. At home on family game night, he really enjoys getting to act like a real life pro ballboy!
With Wimbledon just days away this year, Kate is almost certain to be in attendance, though her exact itinerary still won’t be set in stone. Her fans and conference attendees are just as excited to meet her. She continues to be a bridgebuilder in the sport and in her sharing about these ventures with her family.
