There was an electric atmosphere on Centre Court today for the Wimbledon Men's Final. Presently almost-unbeatable Novak Djokovic fought to tie with Roger Federer for the most men's singles wins in history, while fiercely talented up and coming Carlos Alcaraz Garfia tried to cement his status as the one to watch of his generation with his first Wimbledon final.
The Waleses arriving.
A wave from the Princess.
It was a milestone day for the Wales parents who brought Prince George for his second Wimbledon final and Princess Charlotte for her first Wimbledon outing. The couple have utilized sporting events as the vehicle to introduce the children to royal engagements and the public element of their futures. William and Kate simply adore sports and they are important in the Waleses' family life. We know all three children are already budding tennis players, with George receiving a few tips from none other than Roger Federer.
As we're on the cusp of the future king's tenth birthday, the Mail on Sunday spoke to insiders and reported George will not be expected to serve in the military before ascending to the throne. Instead, his parents will support whatever path he chooses to take before assuming a life devoted to royal duties. William was very much given his twenties to forge his own path and then, after marrying Kate, a number of years before becoming a full-time royal. I think we'll absolutely see the same for George.
With an intense focus on streamlining, we don't yet even know if we'll see Charlotte and Louis as working royals (a mistake if not in my view), but all that remains to be seen. What we do know, and William and Kate are keenly aware of, is the reality all three children need to prepare for public life, so I do expect we'll see more events like this.
The children joined their parents in meeting officials and volunteers.
Charlotte saying hello to an adorable dog.
The Wales family in the Royal Box.
Let's go! The rising star versus the legend.
George and Charlotte watch on as play gets underway.
— ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) July 16, 2023
Patron Kate looked thrilled to have the children there.
A very sweet mother-daughter shot.
An overview of the Royal Box.
Kate talking with former British tennis player Annabel Croft.
The first set saw the Wimbledon veteran steam past the Spaniard.
Alcaraz roared back by taking the second-set after a tie break.
Alcaraz roars back! 💪
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
The world No.1 takes the second set 7-6(6)#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/Zj5FxBwOfl
Yes, it was that tense.
The third set hit Deuce on no less than ten occasions.
After a nail-biting set, and against all expectations, Alcaraz took the third.
A lovely shot of George and Charlotte.
An energetic crowd filled Centre Court today.
It was lovely to see King Felipe of Spain having such a wonderful time cheering on is fellow countryman. Spain has a proud history and has produced one of the greatest of all time with the indefatigable Rafa Nadal. The undisputed Rocky of tennis players, he has overcome countless injuries to stake his place among the very best. He is sorely missed on the grass court this year. As Spain's sporting jewel, Rafa is said to be considering retirement. Felipe was courtside to watch the next Spanish tennis star take his place.
Also in the Royal Box -- former James Bond Daniel Craig and Rachel Weisz.
If rumours are to be believed, a contender for the next 007 was also there. James Norton and his girlfriend Imogen Poots.
The Princess chatting with James Norton.
Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee.
Brad Pitt was also courtside.
Fantastic to see champions Andy Murray and Neal Skupski there.
A pair of British #Wimbledon champions taking in the Gentlemen's final 🇬🇧@andy_murray | @nealskupski pic.twitter.com/DM728hLswK
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
A little behind-the-scenes look from Wimbledon.
Secret service fit for a King 😅#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/7wwxXCOKMP
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
Lady Frederick Windsor, Sophie Winkleman was chic in the Catherine Walker Celia dress. She carried the Aspinal of London Paris bag.
Whilst her sister-in-law, Lady Gabriella Kingston, looked elegant in Emilia Wickstead (with thanks to Royal Fashion Police).
Lady Gabriella & Thomas Kingston are also at Wimbledon today. But not in the Royal Box with her parents Prince & Princess Michael of Kent.
— Gert's Royals (@Gertsroyals) July 16, 2023
This is because the couple have already been in the royal box once this tournament. https://t.co/7CLdU2b3Dr
While Djokovic took the fourth set, Alcaraz fought point by point to take the fifth.
The reaction from the Royal Box said it all.
The Princess on court to present the trophy.
A smiling Kate, trophy in hand, ready to congratulate 20-year-old Carlos.
A new Wimbledon champion takes his place.
It's all yours, @carlosalcaraz 🏆#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/EuXoqQjZkp
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
No one was more thrilled than King Felipe and I thought it a lovely gesture to see him greeting the Waleses and taking time to say hello to George and Charlotte.
I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire match. It was utterly spectacular tennis.
Kate completed a trifecta of green looks today with an elegant Roland Mouret dress.
On her visit during the first week of the tournament, the Princess selected a mint Balmain blazer with a long pleated skirt.
Yesterday, for the Women's Final, it was a boucle collared midi dress in lime.
Today's emerald green Roland Mouret Asymmetric Midi Dress has a sheath silhouette and statement detail across the neckline. The short-sleeve dress with a round neckline and rear slit is available in limited sizing at Farfetch and My Theresa (with thanks to Gabi).
A closer look at the ruffle detailing.
The Princess wore a pair of Gold-Plated Sterling Silver Green Onyx earrings by Milina London (with thanks to Found by Bojana). Kate's triangular pair are sold out, but the teardrop style remains in stock.
The Princess wore her Halcyon Days bangle. It turns out the piece from this weekend is in fact not the Maya but the Salamander Torque in Forget-Me-Not (hat tip to Royal Fashion Police for the ID).
Kate wore her new Victoria Beckham sunglasses again today.
The Princess sported her Gianvito Rossi 105 suede pumps in 'bisque'.
And her Emmy London Natasha clutch.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you all so much for your support regarding The Royal Digest. I am very excited for the coming weeks; marrying the latest royal news with history and plenty of other interesting aspects. This weekend's post covers a stylish gathering from the Swedish royals for Victoriadagen (click here) and a deep dive into one of the most popular 'royally approved' dresses on the market today (click here). There's a special appearance from Kate in that one :)
A match for the ages and so exciting to see the next generation holding up the hardware! Nice to see handsome King Felipe there to support Alcarez.
ReplyDeleteAs for the fashion, what a breath of fresh air for the bright color and modern dress! The length looked a bit hard to walk in during the trophy presentation but it looks great in photos.
ReplyDeleteLovely color and cut. And it’s actually refreshing to see her in something that is less than perfect: the dress is comfortably creased!
I absolutely agree Anon 18:25. It just makes her even more relatable! :)
DeleteI like today's look although it would have looked more polished without the creases. Her hair looked great today.
ReplyDeleteI think George will be given more freedom around the military service because he won't have as long as William did to do his own thing, because of how the pool of working royals has drastically shrunk in the last few years. I would imagine that Charlotte and possibly Louis will be needed as well but maybe not their spouses. I reckon they'll be working quite a bit by the time they are in their mid to late 20s (George especially).
A PP on the 'first look' post said that they would like to see Charlotte in something other than blue. My theory is that the kids are always seen in one of a very small range of fashions to avoid them becoming (even more high profile) fashion icons as kids.
ABCD, I think you are right. Having them in a routine range of fashions does take them out of that lane. Plenty of time in the future to have everyone want to know what & who the kids are wearing! That time will come faster than we think. In just 10yrs Charlotte will be 18yrs & George will be turning 20!! :0
DeleteI agree, very good point about their clothes to have dressed like other children. As regards to lower profile. I don't think you can get more high profile that today and the children were in the best seats in the house. What I did notice watching live the camera kept going to the Princess, I know it was her first time there but it just felt too much for me. Pictures were taken of them, maybe let them enjoy the day. Also Prince Louis got a mention. Said probably wasn't there because wouldn't be able to sit still. I think just because it is very public that the children should be given a higher degree of privacy. One of today's newspapers has Charlotte on the front page. Not her beautiful Mother presenting the trophy or one of the winner. S.🙂.
DeleteI don't think Charlotte is going to be traumatized because the cameras were on her. She didn't notice and she enjoyed the match, there are tons of pictures showing her happy, nervous, excited and unbothered. Of course the attention was on her, her cute glasses and her sweet reactions. Stop projecting drama on these kids who are living a normal life 98% of the time thanks to their parents and the way they've handled the media.
DeleteAnon 6:36 Heartily agree. If Charlotte noticed the cameras or photographers at all yesterday, they didn't seem to bother her. She seemed thoroughly engaged in the game and didn't hold back on her enthusiasm when Alcaraz won. The picture of her throwing her arms up and yelling at the top of her lungs made me laugh and reminded me of her brother Louis--who never seems bothered by cameras one bit, or at all shy in public. Even George seems to come out of his shell when watching sports. I can only imagine what goes on at home when they're watching as a family. I very much agree with Becca USA that taking the kids out to sporting events is a great way to introduce them to the public, help accustom them to greeting and interacting with the public and dealing with attention from the press.
DeleteCharlotte to me is definitely a Windsor but sometimes, especially today in her sunnies, she has a hint of Aunt Pippa in her face❤️
ReplyDeletelovely dress today. I am afraid that I did not at all care for her other two Wimbledon looks this year.
ReplyDeleteExactly! BTW I thought today's look to be some repeat?
DeleteI loved seeing the very handsome King Felipe VI! The dress is pretty, but the wrinkles ruin the whole look for me.
ReplyDeleteShe was carrying a different bag - looked like a tote - when she left the tournament.
ReplyDeleteSo wonderful to see George and Charlotte today. You can tell they all tennis. Loved Kate's green dress today including the wrinkles. The expectation for perfection needs to be dropped, especially on days when it's not about Kate but rather the men's final winner!
ReplyDeleteDitto!
DeleteKing Felipe is just gorgeous. I think he took my eye today ;)
ReplyDeleteKate looked fabulous. So happy to see her bring George and Charlotte.
Just a quick note to say how much I like The Royal Digest. It will be fun to read about other royal events, please feature Sophie!
ReplyDeleteHello! I absolutely will. The Duchess of Edinburgh will be joining the King and Queen on Tuesday for a Windsor Castle reception celebrating the work of Shakespeare.
DeleteWhat.A.Match!!! Wow! We started watching, went to church & talked afterwards, came bk and it was still on. Loved today’s look and hair- wrinkling is a bummer but what can you do? Her sunnies are gorgeous and so are the shoes. Love that both kids got to go. They’ll be talking about it! Nice to see King Felipe too. Thanks! Sue from
ReplyDeleteIL
Wow! What a match & what a day!! It was so lovely seeing the Wales family there today! William definitely looked like the proud Papa & looked just pleased as punch, to be there supporting Kate in her duties!
ReplyDeleteThe photos of Charlotte in her sunnies gave me "future" vibes!! The way she was playing with her hair & the way she looked etc... I think she's going to be a real beauty & these kids are going to be Totally center stage, as Teens & Twenty-somethings!! I think whatever Will & Kate can do, whether that's keeping their public wardrobe predictable etc... to fend off that time of coming attention, the better.
The way Will & Kate have melded, introducing the children to public life & taking in sporting event, is so great & natural. Since The Waleses share this interest as a family, they are able to have fun, while still having the children gain experience & exposure. I was noting how attentive George & Charlotte were, while Kate was talking to some of the various support people at Wimbledon. I'm sure they talk about these things at home, but every chance they get to observe their parents interacting with the public & see how their parents handle themselves in the given setting, is a learning opportunity for the children.
Having King Felipe there & seeing him leaning over to talk to the family, the children in particular, was wonderful.
I absolutely loved Kate in this ensemble!! I also loved the pic of her chatting with James Norton. She had one of her authentically Kate expressions! :)
Thanks Charlotte for your amazing & always detailed coverage, of this great Match & day, wrapping up Wimbledon 2023!
I'm looking forward to enjoying "The Royal Digest" in this summer of 2023! :) xoxo
Once again, you said it all for me, Becca, only much better than I would have! Thank you 😍 Well done to William and Kate for the way in which they gradually enable the kids to get involved. And I agree Princes Charlotte is going to be a beauty, being already such a lovely girl! I love her hair. Zora from Prague
DeleteGreat minds think alike Zora! :) xoxo
DeleteDefinitely an EPIC match. I had to watch the replay here in the US and they cut it down to 3 hours. Thankfully they left in the never ending game that Djokovic served. Fabulous match!
ReplyDeleteJust when I thought Kate had abandoned the sheath dress, she shows up in this lovely Roland Mouret. I hope that Kate will continue to wear colors other than green - it's starting to be a little bit of a uniform. So happy that Charlotte came along to this event. I think the kids appear to be adjusting to public life very well. And yes, I agree both are going to be quite tall. At the air base earlier this week, I thought, "did George just shoot up 5 inches?"
Great coverage Charlotte!
Thank you for this coverage and all the wonderful photos. I puzzles me that Lady Gabriella couldn’t wasn’t able to sit in the Royal box but celebrities are allowed just a row or two away from the Waleses
ReplyDeleteI've liked all the Wimbledon looks, but I still don't like the tan accessories. I think this dress would have popped with real GOLD shoes to match the jewelry, or maybe matching green flats...... I don't know, I just don't like the tan.... especially with the Self-portrait yesterday in that AMAZING color. I just love that color and think it looks great on her. But the shoes were not good.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely an EPIC match. I had to watch on replay i feel like watching in 2019 oh i love the support of king Felipe support carlos alacrez Wales family there today!
ReplyDeletePrince William definitely proud dad husband and Princess Catherine doing her duties i love the everything
After reading a bunch elsewhere... I wanted to add some additional thoughts. There's a lot that Will & Kate can't control (like all parents/especially famous ones) with regards to what their children will encounter in life & in their particular situation.. the public interest in their children.
ReplyDeleteHowever, as has been written about a lot lately, what the kids/family has going for them... is Kate & her perspective, having not been raised as a royal or an aristocrat. Much has been documented about how previously in the BRF, you were expected to "just get on with it". It was like you were just supposed to get the hang of all that being a royal entailed by osmosis! There was (so the many claims go) no one to hold your hand, tell you how it's going to be & keep an eye on you while you learned the ropes... or there with a "well done you" & "ok that was great, but maybe next time...". The impression given, was that you were thrown into the deep end & it was up to you not to drown.
Obviously William does not want this way to be the way for his children. Weave that with Kate's successful experience of being shepherded by William, while she was learning the ropes & helped her to succeed & grow in confidence. Not only are Will & Kate executing an apparent well thought out plan, but the children also have the Middletons! Imagine how great it must be, for them to get a hug from Kate's family & to hear things like... "Hey, I saw you on the tele & you were wonderful! I'm so proud of you!" Can you imagine how far that will go in helping to grow the children's confidence, in the efforts they will make?
The other thing I wanted to say, for some time.... is that Kate really/clearly takes her jobs seriously. Both as the Princess of Wales & future Queen... but also in the supporting of & the raising of future monarchs! She has a perspective that no one else in the BRF has. Rather than having this royal gig all mapped out for her & having all the mixed feelings about that/even loosing perspective & taking it for granted.... She was not born to this. She was a girl from the counties who grew up having true reverence for the Queen & The Institution of The Monarchy... along with its place in history. These are not things that Kate takes for granted.
So while she was being called "Waity Katey", she was really in her "Internship" about the not so easy side of being with the Royal Family, even on the fringes. It's easy to forget, but she was put through a lot, as was her family & they took it all & never put a foot wrong.
Then when she & Will married, she began her life inside The Royal Family & we all have watched her grow & flourish. I'll say it again, The Queen was so wise to give them that time to establish themselves as a married couple & then as a new young family, before having them become full time royals. I remember all the discussions back then, as to why they weren't more busy? Many of us saw what they were doing, as playing "The Long Game" & we were right. That's just what they did & wow has it ever worked out right!
All along though, I don't thing Kate's reverence for the Institution & the importance of her roles has wavered! I think she now holds a respected place in the BRF, which is both well earned & quite genuine! If anything, she probably reminds the others, by how seriously she takes it all... The "whole" of it, as a breath of fresh air & sometimes a much needed wake up call, that they are making history... so they better get it right. I know this has been said before & much written about lately... but she really does remind me of the "Queen Mother". I believe I read recently, that while the Queen Mother was said to be a "Marshmallow with a steel inside", Kate is said to be a "Steel hand within a velvet glove". She is soft & genuinely kind... but she takes it all Very Seriously & there's no two ways about it!
I just admire how much attention & devotion she gives to all her roles/jobs & I think the UK is just so blessed to have her, as are the children & William, to have her there, as they grow into their own roles! :) xoxo
Well said Becca, and as one of those people - way back when - who believed that there was a 'master plan' that involved a steady and methodical approach to her responsibilities, the effect of that approach on Kate's evolution is evident. Factor that in with Kate's genuine and sincere attitude, along with her total devotion and commitment as a mother and a royal, it's hard to argue the results. Whether you like her approach, or her style, or whether or not she is your cup of tea, and even though she is 'part and parcel' a royal duo, she is definitely her own person. 'Steel hand within a velvet glove" indeed!
DeleteIndeed! Anon 16:39 :)
DeleteBoth children seems to love the sport and introducing them to public life by family events, sports events and fun events would make royal engagements more natural for them. One of courtiers in 2011 have said that the Canada trip was designed to make the prospect of working as a royal ,for future decades ,for kate enjoyable and not traumatic.
ReplyDeleteThe Princess looked lovely in this green dress. I loved all the ensembles she chose over the course of a few days. King Felipe, looked very dapper in his suit. Such a handsome man, was a bonus to see him. He has such a nice disposition, such warmth.
ReplyDeleteNothing to do with the fashion, which was very nice; I love how when it's Kate's event (she is the Patron of the Event, not William), he literally takes a step back while she is front centre, even though by royal protocol she should be behind him, as at state events. He was showing interest and in full support, but mostly there to mind the kids while she did her thing!
ReplyDeleteCompletely agree with you Trickymum! it is very admirable how these two work together and support each other in their patronages, and as parents.
DeleteRight on Trickymum & I just love that! :)
DeleteIt's important to note that in the photo of Kate speaking with Annabel Croft that Princess Charlotte is actively engaged with American tennis great (and three-time Wimbledon Champion) Chris Evert! This was such a special treat, to see the children enjoying the tennis so much, alongside their parents. Tennis is such a wonderful sport, and I think it's wonderful that the Wales's enjoy it together. They look more relaxed every time they appear together, and it looks to me like they are really enjoying doing engagements all together as a family. And I don't ever really like commenting on fashion because it feels a bit superficial to me, but wow they are a gorgeous family, and the Princess of Wales looks so gorgeous in emerald green!
ReplyDeleteHi Rebecca from USA, it's Becca USA. :) It took me a while to realize that was Chris Evert, talking with Charlotte! They were so cute! I think you are right, that the children are getting increasingly more comfortable at these public events. It's so wonderful seeing the family all enjoying the events together! They really are such a great family!
DeleteWow I didn’t think people would start criticizing what the children a wearing. It actually disgusts me.
ReplyDeleteDd
I feel any criticism of the children's clothing and/or behavior/parenting is uncalled for and out of line.
DeleteThe children are adorable.
Anon 2:14, is this in the UK papers or on social media? I noticed that in the clip of George & Charlotte, that Charlotte posted, the commentator mentioned them by name. Over here in the U.S. our commentators of course gave no mention, that I heard, about the royal family.
DeleteI am surprised that is happening... although this is, I suppose, exactly the type of thing that Will & Kate are beginning to expose the children too & hopefully process it through with them... thus possibly hoping to immunize them, to a point, & help put it in perspective... that it's part & parcel to this part of their life.... What a hard thing to walk your children through as parents. I think how when my kids hurt, I hurt even more... It must be so hard to be in their (Will & Kate's) position.. trying to thread this needle.
Bonsoir , robe superbe , Catherine y rayonne. Idée super de porter ses 2 enfants. On attendra louis en 2024. Bonne soirée 😊
DeleteHello Becca, I’m a big fan of your insightful posts and agree with you (mostly). I think K takes her mom job very seriously which I really admire about her. My one issue is the formality and buttoned upness the family still has on their outfit choices. A slightly more relaxed less matchy approach would be welcomed.
DeleteThese children will face constant scrutiny over everything. They will be praised, criticized, trolled, psychoanalyzed, monitored, papped, and controlled. Their lives are no longer their own. Even when they choose to step back as adults, they will be fair game. It’s way too late to put back this genie. There will be all kinds of armchair experts, “confidants”, insiders, friends, advisors who will make lucrative money dissecting their lives and their future family. Then there’s the constant security issue which means providing security will be quite expensive whether they choose to be in or out of the firm.
ReplyDeleteThis is the high price. People may think praises and adulation are all good. It’s not. That’s just as damaging as constant criticisms for character development. I wish the British monarchy adopts a less celebrity like presence and a more laid back European take on its constitutional monarchy, but the price of that is less taxpayer fundings, less pomp and grandeur, and a smaller presence on the global stage.
Stunning. I loved the Princess of Wales look today. Beautiful dress,cut style and colour. That shade of green looks beautiful on her. For fashion earrings they work very well with her look. It looks like they had a great day out. Very well behaved children, it was a long day. Thanks Charlotte. I've tried to post on this and your last two updates and I kept getting a message saying won't publish. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteShe looks beautiful and her kids look lovely and nice to see them so cute.. this post is the epitome of lifestyles of the rich and famous lol
ReplyDeleteI miss “The Royal Decade” blog. It stopped abruptly in March. It was so interesting. Wish it would come back.
ReplyDeleteHello,
DeleteThank you for your interest. The Royal Decade will essentially merge into The Royal Digest moving forward. I'll have news on plans for the post schedule next week :)
Very good idea Charlotte. I wish you the very best of luck with it. I would also like to thank you again for all your hard work on here, very much appreciated. S.🙂.
DeleteThank you very much S :)
Deleteyes your work is very much appreciated love all your blogs and grateful for all the hard work you put into it Charlotte
DeleteBeautiful family! I'm very impressed by the incremental ways that the Wales children are being introduced to their roles and to the fascination of the public with their every facial expression and clothing choice. By taking them to fun events, the children are able to focus on the events and be oblivious (I hope) to the many cameras and eyes looking at them.
ReplyDeleteHAPPINESS - a sheath dress!! Kate has always rocked the look of a sheath dress. As with many of her dresses this year, this one is too long, in my opinion. (Too long on Kate and too long on the designer's model.) With the green color, I am reminded of a GUMBY. Wish the dress had been shorter. Personally, I prefer the proportions of the lovely floral sheath dress worn by Sophie Winkleman in the other Wimbledon post. Agree with the other comments that the wrinkled fabric undermines the polished appearance that Kate usually achieves. Sadly, I must conclude that even though this dress is a sheath, it is not one of her better choices.