The Princess of Wales surprised tennis fans queuing for Wimbledon tickets on Thursday, greeting attendees who had waited since 4am to secure entry to the fourth day of the tournament. Kate, dressed in a blue linen suit, spoke with hopeful spectators outside the All England Lawn Tennis Club before joining stewards to help take payment and distribute tickets.
As she handed tickets to two fans, she told them to “have a great time.” The princess smiled and laughed while greeting visitors, taking photos, and chatting with children. She asked two excited children if they were big tennis fans, to which they nodded enthusiastically. One attendee congratulated her on her recent Three Peaks challenge.
Royal Patron Engages with Stewards and Fans
Kate also spoke with honorary stewards who volunteer annually to manage the queue. Onlookers stopped to take pictures as she entered the grounds. The princess is patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and regularly attends Wimbledon. Last year, she presented the men’s trophy to Jannik Sinner after watching the singles final with the Prince of Wales.
In 2024, Kate was diagnosed with cancer and made her second public appearance post-diagnosis at the championships, greeted with cheers alongside Princess Charlotte in the royal box. At the start of 2025, she confirmed she was free from the disease.
Match Viewing and Community Engagement
After entering the grounds, Kate was welcomed by applause as she walked past Henman Hill, waving at spectators. She then entered Court 18 to watch Briton Arthur Fery play his second-round match against Finland’s Otto Virtanen. She sat alongside AELTC chairwoman Deborah Jevans and former professional player Tim Henman.
Kate also met with children from the local Shine Camera Club, which supports disadvantaged children through photography. The children showed her Polaroid pictures taken around Wimbledon. She praised one child’s photo of a tree as “abstract,” adding, “I love that.” Discussing the importance of arts, she said, “Creativity is such a good way of exploring your emotions.”
Court One Appearance with Andy Murray
Later, Kate took a seat in Court One to watch Briton Katie Swan face American Madison Keys. She walked down the corridor with former world number one Sir Andy Murray, a longtime friend. Kate shared a touching tribute to Murray after his final Wimbledon match in 2024.
Among other stars attending Thursday were singer Ellie Goulding, historian Dan Snow, Olympic champion Dame Denise Lewis, and Sir Cliff Richard, who returned for the fourth consecutive day. Temperatures in London reached 26°C, making for a hot day at the championships.
