Andy Murray has revealed that the Princess of Wales has taken up padel, a racket sport similar to tennis, after they watched Wimbledon together. The former world No. 1 and Catherine sat in the No. 1 Court stands to watch British player Katie Swan take on 26th seed Madison Keys in the second round. Although Swan lost the match, the princess enjoyed the afternoon with Murray and Anne Keothavong, former British player and current GB Billie Jean King Cup captain.
Murray shares details of the afternoon
Speaking to Hello Magazine, Murray said: 'Yes, it was a fun afternoon. She is definitely a tennis fan and she plays a bit herself, I think. I think she also plays padel. We watched the Katie Swan and Madison Keys match, so it was good to be watching a British player together.' The three-time Grand Slam champion spent years competing on Centre Court in front of the Royal Box and noted that the Royal Family's presence makes Wimbledon extra special. He added: 'I think it means a lot to the players and to tennis fans to see the Royal family at Wimbledon. It's part of the tradition of Wimbledon and the fans really like that, especially the overseas fans.'
Princess Kate's role at Wimbledon
The Princess of Wales, who is the Patron of the All England Club, presented the trophies to the gentlemen's and ladies' singles champions, Jannik Sinner and Linda Noskova, over the weekend. She was joined by Prince William and their children, George and Charlotte, to watch the men's singles final between Sinner and Alexander Zverev. World No. 1 Sinner, who also won last year, admitted he still finds it difficult to speak with the princess. 'It was not easier. So much respect, so I never know where the line is,' Sinner said. 'No, I think you can really see that they love the sport. This is exactly how we feel as players on court when we see them watching tennis. Staying there for four hours under the sun with the heat, it's really nice.'
Sinner's conversation with the Royal Family
Sinner also enjoyed a brief chat with George and Charlotte. 'I asked the kids if they still play. They are very happy, yes, they do. We had a very, very small conversation. But I love it. That they also take time to talk with me, it's something really, really nice. Having the whole Royal Box there, as well, the whole people staying for a match like this for four-ish hours, it's amazing. That's also the reason why we love to play tennis.'
The revelation about Princess Kate's interest in padel adds a new dimension to her sporting pursuits, as she is already known as a keen tennis player and supporter of British tennis.
