With uncertainty over whether Kate Middleton, 42, will make her appearance at Wimbledon, the British press has begun to speculate on the possible measures to be taken by the tournament organizers and the British Royal House itself ahead of the final.
Princess Kate is a very important figure in this prestigious tennis event, and there were high hopes for her reappearance. However, so far, that has not happened.
In view of this situation, the press has already identified the possible replacement of the Princess of Wales for the trophy presentation next Sunday, July 14.
Who will present the trophies at Wimbledon?
In case Prince William’s wife does not appear at Wimbledon, the person in charge of presenting the trophies will be Duchess Birgitte of Gloucester.
Prince Richard’s wife is an active royal and maintains a close relationship with Queen Camilla. In fact, she has been seen accompanying her at several events in recent months.
Prince Richard is a first cousin of Elizabeth II and is directly related to both King Charles III and his children.
The connection between the Duchess of Gloucester and Queen Camilla is evident, and according to The Telegraph, she would be in charge of presenting the trophies at the Wimbledon final in Kate Middleton’s absence, given her strong ties to the tennis world in the UK for more than two decades.
The Duchess of Gloucester has been spotted at the tennis tournament these days alongside her family, and the press agrees that there is no better figure within or close to the British Royal Family to take on this important role.
Her role in the British Crown is so valued that King Charles III named her Lady of the Garter, even though she is not a direct relative of the royal family, but her husband is a member.
The hope of Kate’s appearance
The Wimbledon organization would be delighted with this ‘forced’ change due to Kate Middleton’s state of health, and The Telegraph claims that this plan is already underway.
From the organization have stated that they are hopeful that the Princess of Wales can present the trophies as patron of the Club, but recognize that her health and recovery are the priority.
The organization made it clear that they would work with her and give her the greatest possible flexibility.
“We are prepared to be as flexible as necessary to accommodate her health.”
Debbie Jevans, the president of the All England Club, said at the time that she did not know who would present the trophies as an alternative Kate, but that it would be something to consider closer to the time if necessary.
Now, with just a few days to go it seems that Kate Middleton’s replacement already has a name and it is Duchess Birgitte of Gloucester, although everything is yet to be finalized in the coming days.
Many online royal watchers are still holding out hope that the princess will deliver the trophies.
When Kate Middleton reappeared at the last ‘Trooping the Colour’, her attendance was not confirmed until just 12 hours earlier.
Despite the uncertainty over her appearance, Kate Middleton has made it clear that she is following the tournament closely. On her social media, she posted an emotional message: “An incredible Wimbledon career comes to an end. You should be so very proud @andymurray. On behalf of all of us, thank you!”
Kate Middleton’s recovery
The princess is currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy treatment, and its effects mean that her recovery is constantly monitored, causing changes and making it difficult to plan her return to work and her duties within the British Crown.