The summer heat wasn’t the only thing turning up at Wimbledon today—the Princess of Wales made a radiant return, gracing Centre Court just in time to witness Iga Swiatek deliver a historic and brutal 6-0, 6-0 win over Amanda Anisimova in the Women’s Final.
But while the scoreline made headlines, it was the heartfelt moments, emotional interviews, and royal gestures that truly stole the show.
Kate Stuns in Cream as She Greets Tennis Stars and Fans
Looking poised and radiant in a cream high-collared top and skirt—accessorized with a £950 Anya Hindmarch tote and a signature green-and-purple Wimbledon bow—Kate, 43, made her way through cheering crowds to take her front-row seat in the Royal Box.
It’s her first Wimbledon since stepping back from public duties due to cancer treatment, and her appearance clearly touched the crowd.
Before settling in for the match, she greeted several people behind the scenes, including young coin toss performers Sophie Kneen and Lydia Lowe, wheelchair tennis star Wang Ziying, and long-time Wimbledon steward Bob Flin.
Kate also took a moment to speak with foundation host Shaniah Williams and ticketing staffer Jefferson Iweh.
Swiatek Crushes Anisimova in Historic Double Bagel
While the Princess dazzled courtside, Iga Swiatek made history on Centre Court, becoming the first woman since 1911 to win the Wimbledon final with a double bagel scoreline.
American Amanda Anisimova, playing in her first Grand Slam final, was overcome with emotion after the defeat.
The 23-year-old was visibly tearful as she collected her runner-up trophy from Kate, who offered words of kindness and comfort during the presentation.
Anisimova later explained she’d “run out of gas,” and became emotional once again while thanking her mother, who had flown in that morning to support her.
Kate’s Reputation for Grace Shines On
This isn’t the first time Kate has offered more than just a handshake.
She’s built a reputation for breaking royal protocol with heartfelt gestures.
One notable example came in 2023, when she comforted a tearful Ons Jabeur after back-to-back Wimbledon final losses.
Jabeur later said Kate was unsure about giving her a hug, to which she replied, “Who doesn’t want a hug from a Princess?”
Kate’s thoughtful energy continues to make an impact.
In fact, Jabeur added that simply being around her was uplifting: “She has watched me twice, losing the final twice.
She kept asking me if she could hug me… she was really the nicest.”
The Princess and Her Life-Long Love of Tennis
Kate’s love for Wimbledon runs deep. In a 2017 BBC documentary, she said watching the tournament was a staple of her childhood.
She’s not just a royal figurehead—she’s a lifelong fan and player, once a competitive tennis and netball star at Marlborough College.
And the tennis love runs in the family. Her sister Pippa was also a hockey player, though Kate was team captain.
Today, her daughter Charlotte appears to be following in her footsteps, promising to try wheelchair tennis after meeting Lucy Shuker and other athletes on the players’ lawn.
A Sweltering Day with Temperatures Pushing 30°C
The weather also played its part in today’s action. Temperatures peaked near 30°C, falling just short of the record heat from the 1976 women’s final.
But the blazing sunshine still led to dehydration risks, crowd emergencies, and multiple interruptions throughout the tournament’s final days.
On Friday, the men’s semi-final between Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz was halted twice in five minutes due to medical incidents in the crowd.
Wimbledon officials reminded everyone that their heat rule—which allows a 10-minute break when conditions become too intense—remains in effect for all singles matches.
Kate’s Continued Impact On and Off the Court
After a year marked by personal health challenges, Kate’s return to Wimbledon was more than symbolic.
It was a testament to resilience, grace, and the human side of royalty.
From comforting athletes and meeting fans to standing with Charlotte and Pippa, the Princess of Wales once again reminded everyone why she’s such a beloved presence at Wimbledon.
As the tournament wraps up, and with the men’s final set for Sunday under still-high temperatures, Kate’s warm presence remains one of the championship’s most uplifting stories—a reminder that even in a world of fierce competition, compassion and dignity always shine through.