2024-07-09 23:42:18
Traditionally, Princess Kate presents the Wimbledon trophies. This year, however, another member of the Royal Family could take on the top job.
As patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, it is usually Princess Kate’s job to award the trophies to the winners of the Wimbledon tennis tournament. This year, however, it might be different, as Kate has withdrawn from public life due to cancer treatment. There is now a hot rumor about who will step in for the wife of the heir to the throne, Prince William.
As the British daily newspaper “Telegraph” reports, another member of the royal family is set to distribute the trophies. Accordingly, Birgitte, the Duchess of Gloucester, could present the awards at the finals this weekend if Princess Kate is indeed unavailable.
The 78-year-old Duchess is married to a first cousin of the former Queen, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester. And like Kate, Birgitte is also an avid tennis fan. She has been honorary president of the Lawn Tennis Association for 25 years, supporting the governing body for tennis in Great Britain. This year she has already visited Wimbledon twice.
Duchess Birgitte is a full-time working member of the Royal Family and recently made history with her appointment as Royal Lady of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. She is the first non-blood relative within the Royal Family, who is not married to the monarch or heir to the throne, to be elevated to this position.
The passionate tennis player Kate has been at Wimbledon almost every year since her marriage to William in 2011. The only exception were the matches shortly before the birth of Prince George in 2013. Kate was given patronage by Queen Elizabeth II in 2016.
“We hope that the Princess of Wales will be able to present the trophies as Patron of the Club, but her health and recovery are a priority,” All England Club Chairwoman Debbie Jevans said in a statement released on June 27. It was also said that the decision on who will present the trophies may not be made until the morning of the final.
Princess Kate made her first and only public appearance this year on June 15, when she and her family attended the official birthday parade of King Charles III, “Trooping the Colour,” in London. The Princess of Wales had announced her appearance the day before.
Wimbledon has long been a highlight in the 42-year-old’s summer calendar. In July 2023, she attended the tournament with her family for three days, among others. This year, her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, were guests at Wimbledon on July 4th.
At the weekend, Princess Kate also wrote a message for tennis star Andy Murray: “An incredible Wimbledon career comes to an end. You should be very proud Andy Murray. On behalf of all of us, thank you,” Kate said on the social media accounts she shares with Prince William. She signed the message with “C” for Catherine – an abbreviation that shows that the message came directly from her.