Never-before-seen footage has emerged showing a surprisingly competitive side of Queen Elizabeth II during a heated tennis match with her husband, Prince Philip.
The remarkable video, captured during the 1960s, shows the monarch visibly frustrated during a doubles game on the private courts at Buckingham Palace.
The Royal Temper Revealed
In the extraordinary clip, the Queen can be seen playing alongside a lady-in-waiting against Prince Philip and his equerry. After missing a shot, Her Majesty demonstrates her competitive spirit by throwing her tennis racket to the ground in frustration.
The moment occurred during what appeared to be a fiercely contested match between the royal couple. Witnesses described the atmosphere as "intense" with both the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh determined to win.
This rare glimpse into the Queen's private competitive nature contrasts sharply with her usual public demeanour of calm composure.
A Competitive Partnership
The footage provides fascinating insight into the relationship between the Queen and Prince Philip, showing their competitive dynamic during leisure activities.
Royal biographer Robert Jobson, who analysed the footage, noted that both the Queen and Prince Philip were "extremely competitive people" who didn't like losing to each other.
"They were very competitive in everything they did, whether it was racing carriages or playing tennis," Jobson explained. "This footage really captures that spirit."
The tennis match took place during the early years of their marriage, showcasing a younger, more physically active royal couple enjoying sports together.
Historical Significance
This unearthed footage offers historians and royal watchers a unique perspective on the Queen's character away from formal state occasions.
The video was reportedly filmed by a member of the royal household who had access to the private gardens at Buckingham Palace.
Such candid moments were rarely captured during that era, making this footage particularly valuable for understanding the human side of monarchy.
The Queen's reaction, while surprising to modern audiences, was described by palace insiders as characteristic of her determination and passion for sports.
Throughout her reign, the Queen maintained an active interest in various sports, particularly horse racing and equestrian events, though her tennis playing days became less frequent as she grew older.
This remarkable footage serves as a poignant reminder of the Queen's humanity and the private moments that shaped her seventy-year reign.
