The Princess of Wales has revealed a hilariously candid insight into family life at home, admitting she now actively avoids being tackled by her eldest son, Prince George, during sporting games.
A Royal Reception for World Champions
Kate Middleton, the Patron of the Rugby Football Union, hosted the triumphant England women's rugby team, the Red Roses, at Windsor Castle to celebrate their World Cup victory in September 2025. The team secured their third title after beating Canada 33-13 in a sold-out final at Twickenham, witnessed by a record crowd of 81,885 spectators.
During the engagement, her first solo one of 2026, the Princess praised the team's "amazing achievement," telling them: "You've really inspired all the new generation (that) perhaps might not even have thought rugby was for them." She highlighted the accessibility of the sport, adding it had shown how rugby was open to "so many types of girls, in different parts of the country."
Sporty Siblings and a Teenage Tackler
Conversation turned to the royal children's own sporting pursuits. Kate confirmed that Princess Charlotte enjoys playing rugby at home with the family, while Prince Louis is involved in touch rugby. She expressed a balanced view on children's sports, noting: "They shouldn't necessarily push boys and girls in particular sports too early."
It was her remark about Prince George, however, that brought laughter from the assembled Red Roses. With the honesty of any parent watching their child grow, Kate admitted: "Obviously as they get physically stronger - George now, if we play at home, I do not want to get tackled by George - but, up to a certain age, I think it's great."
Driving Engagement and Dressing Room Dances
The visit was marked by several memorable moments. Royal fans were delighted to see footage of the Princess driving herself to Windsor Castle for the engagement, stepping out in the rain in an Alexander McQueen suit and heels, which sparked admiration online for her down-to-earth approach.
Kate's longstanding support for the Red Roses was evident. She had followed their World Cup campaign, watching a pool match victory over Australia from the stands in Brighton, and even joined the players for a celebratory sing-song in the changing rooms afterwards. Player Ellie Kildunne later joked about the cowboy hat Kate wore during that visit and revealed the princess had taken part in a cowboy lasso dance with some of the squad.
The event at Windsor Castle served not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a charming glimpse into the relatable, sporty dynamics of the Wales family household.
