The Princess of Wales: A Tennis Enthusiast and Royal Patron
The Princess of Wales is deeply involved in the world of tennis, not only as an avid fan but also as a skilled player. Her dedication to the sport is further exemplified by her role as the Patron of the All-England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, a position that traditionally sees her presenting trophies to the champions and runners-up at Wimbledon.
A Royal Encounter at Wimbledon: Kyrgios's Perspective
In 2022, Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios, known for his controversial on-court behavior and outspoken personality, found himself in the runner-up position at Wimbledon. This meant receiving the trophy from the Princess of Wales herself. While many athletes would cherish words of encouragement from a member of the Royal Family, Kyrgios's reported reaction was surprisingly candid.
According to reports, during their meeting on Centre Court, the Princess offered Kyrgios words of praise, saying, "Great work, well played." Kyrgios's internal response, as he later revealed, was a skeptical, "What would you know?"
Understanding Kyrgios's Disappointment
It's important to consider the context of Kyrgios's reaction. Losing a major tournament like Wimbledon is undoubtedly a crushing experience for any athlete. As one Royal Editor put it, "In that moment, after losing the tournament, Nick's disappointment is understandable." While Kyrgios may have kept his true thoughts to himself at the time, the Princess's intentions were undoubtedly positive. Her encouragement was likely meant to uplift his spirits and acknowledge his skill, regardless of the final outcome.
Kyrgios's Commentary and an Offer to Coach the Princess
Kyrgios's connection to the Royal Family extended beyond the 2022 Wimbledon final. During his time as a commentator for the BBC's coverage of Wimbledon in 2024, he once again brought up the Princess of Wales. She was in attendance at the Men's Singles Final, accompanied by her sister, Pippa, and daughter, Princess Charlotte.
While providing commentary, Kyrgios playfully remarked, "Maybe I’m a little bit too volatile, but look, I’ve got a lot of time on my hands at the moment so I’m happy to coach [the Princess of Wales]. It’ll be more fun being coached by me than it would be by Federer!"
A Nod to Federer's Royal Connections
Kyrgios's comments hinted at the existing friendship between the Princess and tennis legend Roger Federer. Over the years, Federer has developed a close relationship with the Royal Family.
Federer's Royal Interactions: Tennis Lessons and Royal Box Appearances
In 2023, Federer and the Princess even participated in a friendly tennis match to promote the upcoming Wimbledon tournament. During the game, Federer praised the Princess's serve as "amazing" after she scored a point against him.
Federer's involvement with the Royal Family extends beyond the Princess herself. In 2019, he revealed that he had given tennis lessons to Prince George, the eldest child of the Prince and Princess of Wales. These lessons reportedly took place at the Berkshire home of Carole and Michael Middleton, the Princess's parents.
Federer was also a guest in the Royal Box at Wimbledon in 2023, where he received a standing ovation from the crowd.
The Princess's Wimbledon Appearance Amidst Health Challenges
The Princess of Wales's presence at Wimbledon last year was particularly significant. She received her own standing ovation upon taking her seat in the Royal Box. Her appearance at the tournament marked only her second public outing after publicly announcing her cancer diagnosis earlier in the year. Her attendance demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her royal duties and her passion for the sport of tennis, even amidst personal health challenges.
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