The News
A Royal Welcome: Kate Middleton Celebrates Roger Federer at Wimbledon
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, warmly welcomed tennis legend Roger Federer to a special ceremony at Wimbledon today.
The event was a celebration of Federer's remarkable contributions to the sport, following his retirement last year.
At 41, Federer stood proud as he received accolades on the iconic Centre Court, with Kate leading the applause.
Seated in the Royal Box, Federer's wife, Mirka, watched proudly alongside notable guests including Prince Michael of Kent, his daughter Lady Gabriella, and former Prime Minister David Cameron with his wife, Samantha.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with admiration for the eight-time Wimbledon champion who has inspired countless fans around the globe.
Kate, an avid sports enthusiast and patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, has developed a close friendship with Federer over the years.
Their bond was evident back in 2017 when she broke royal protocol to greet him with three kisses after his eighth Wimbledon victory, a moment witnessed by both the Prince of Wales and Mirka.
Their playful friendship goes beyond the court too.
Recently, they collaborated on a project that highlighted the vital roles of ballboys and ballgirls, showcasing their skills in a fun video released in late June.
It's clear that both Kate and Roger share a passion for tennis and a commitment to supporting the sport.
During the event, Kate also took a moment to connect with Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman who endured six harrowing years in an Iranian prison.
Nazanin was arrested in 2016 at Tehran Airport while visiting family and faced serious charges, which she has consistently denied.
Her eventual return to the UK in 2022 came after a determined campaign led by her husband Richard and a dedicated legal team.
As she arrived at the All England Club, Kate exuded elegance in a stylish ensemble that included a pleated white skirt paired with a chic mint Balmain blazer, valued at £1,950.
Her hair flowed in loose waves, perfectly complementing her understated makeup featuring a subtle sweep of eyeliner and a hint of blush.
Keeping her accessories minimal, Kate opted for a classic pearl bracelet and a pair of eye-catching £72 chunky knot baroque pearl earrings designed by Shila.
This appearance marked a significant moment for the Royal, as it was her first time donning the French luxury label Balmain, favored by celebrities like Cara Delevingne and Kim Kardashian.