Wimbledon is eagerly anticipating the presence of Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, to present the trophies to the men’s and women’s singles champions. This tradition has been a consistent highlight of the prestigious tennis tournament, with Kate’s passion for the sport evident since her childhood. She has only missed the event once, in 2013, due to her pregnancy with Prince George. Her dedication to Wimbledon is further cemented by her role as Patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club since 2016. However, Kate’s current battle with cancer has raised concerns about her ability to attend this weekend’s event.
While she recently made a public appearance at Trooping the Colour, her first since revealing her diagnosis in March, her schedule remains flexible due to her ongoing treatment. Debbie Jevans, chair of the All England Club, confirmed in June that Kate would have “as much flexibility as possible” during her chemotherapy. As a result, the decision on who will present the trophies may be delayed until the morning of the finals.
The Princess previously shared an update on her treatment, stating, “I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.” Kensington Palace has not confirmed any future engagements for Kate while she undergoes preventive chemotherapy.
Her attendance at Trooping the Colour, her only official Royal Family appearance of 2024, was confirmed less than 24 hours before the event. This underscores the unpredictable nature of her schedule and adds to the uncertainty surrounding her presence at Wimbledon. Fans and the tournament organizers alike eagerly await news of her potential participation in this iconic event.
