Pat Cash, the 1987 Wimbledon champion, has admitted to flouting royal protocol during his victory celebration. After defeating Ivan Lendl in straight sets, Cash clambered through the Centre Court stands to embrace his family and team in his player box, a moment that has become tennis folklore and has been replicated by numerous champions since. Wimbledon even installed a gate to allow easier access for such celebrations.
Reprimanded by Wimbledon Officials
Now 61, Cash disclosed that he was reprimanded by Wimbledon officials and pledged not to repeat the gesture. The reason? He kept Princess Diana, who was present in the Royal Box, waiting for the trophy ceremony to begin. Cash reflected on the moment during the BBC's Wimbledon coverage on Friday, drawing comparisons to Princess Kate arriving to watch Arthur Fery on Court 3 on Thursday morning.
"I did [have royals watching my match], I was climbing up the stands all those years ago," Cash said. "Princess Diana was there. I got told off because I kept the royals waiting by climbing through the stand. I got a wrist slap from the club. I promised to never do it again - with my fingers crossed firmly behind my back. But I never got the chance to do it again."
Arthur Fery's Surprise Royal Audience
Meanwhile, Arthur Fery, the sole British singles player to advance to the third round, was left stunned upon learning that the Princess of Wales had arrived early specifically to watch him compete. The 23-year-old defeated Otto Virtanen to set up a meeting with Belgian opponent Zizou Bergs. Fery said: "I didn't know she was coming. I didn't know that, yeah, that was the case. So I can't really answer your question. Yeah, I mean, it's obviously an honor to play in front of her. Yeah, I guess if I'd known, it would have maybe made me a little tight. Yeah, I guess it's an honor to play in front of her."
