imbledon tennis tournament is a big ticket item on the U.K. social calendar, but beyond that it has earned global cachet for offering attendees a quintessentially British experience.
Think Pimm's Cup cocktails, strawberries and cream, and the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the British royal family, dressed to the nines, besides celebrity guests in the Royal Box. But as the two-week sporting event—which debuted in 1877—returns to its namesake London suburb between July 1-14, there could be one glaring absence from courtside. Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales and incumbent patron of Wimbledon’s All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (AELTC), has taken a break from royal duties while she receives treatment for an , and could miss this year’s championships.
But all is not lost for fans holding out hope for Kate’s presence at Wimbledon. The Princess of Wales recently delighted fans when she attended the annual parade on June 15. She was seen waving from the balcony of Buckingham Palace alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as Prince William and their three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Ahead of her appearance, Kensington Palace shared from Kate on its social media accounts. The royal said she hopes to join a few public engagements over the summer, but added that she’s “not out of the woods yet.” A known lover and skilled player of tennis, Kate has become a regular fixture at the tournament.
Over the years, the .
