Princess Beatrice has made a notable return to the public eye, stepping in for Princess Kate at Wimbledon alongside her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. The event marks Beatrice's emergence from her royal hiatus, paying tribute to Kate Middleton, who has long been a patron of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club since 2016.
The royal family's deep ties to Wimbledon were evident, even though no senior working royals had attended the tournament this year until Beatrice's appearance. Princess Kate's parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, attended Day Four of Wimbledon last Thursday. On Day Nine, Princess Beatrice was seen enjoying the game with Edoardo, her presence a subtle homage to Kate's favorite event.
While it is uncertain if the Princess of Wales will present the singles trophies this weekend, her anticipated return to public duties remains in question. Kensington Palace and Wimbledon have not confirmed if Kate, currently undergoing treatment for cancer, will make an appearance in the coming days. Her only public appearance this year was at Trooping the Colour last month.
Despite stepping back from royal duties due to her diagnosis, the Palace indicated that Kate plans to undertake a few engagements this summer. Given her affection for Wimbledon, the tennis tournament might be her next public appearance.
Last year, Kate attended the men's singles final with Prince William and their two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. This year, Princess Beatrice took a prominent role, seen chatting with celebrities like Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry in the Royal Box.
Beatrice and Edoardo took their seats in the front row to watch Italy's Jannik Sinner play Russia's Daniil Medvedev in the men's singles quarterfinal. Beatrice dazzled in a floral print outfit, adhering to the Royal Box's "smart" dress code, while Edoardo looked fashionable in a brown suit paired with a blue shirt and red tie.
Surrounded by familiar faces, the couple engaged in lively conversations with English comedian Michael McIntyre, actor Stephen Fry, and "Girls" star Lena Dunham. The royal couple's presence highlighted their support and connection to the prestigious event.
As Kate continues her chemotherapy, the question of whether she will attend Wimbledon this year and award prizes to the winners remains open. However, Princess Beatrice's involvement has ensured that the royal family's tradition at Wimbledon continues.
