Catherine, Princess of Wales and Roger Federer in the Royal Box. Photo / Getty Images
Catherine, Princess of Wales and Roger Federer in the Royal Box. Photo / Getty Images
The Princes of Wales may be well-known for her competitive nature and sporty streak, but there’s one close friend she’ll never beat on the court.
Kate Middleton has long been good mates with tennis champion Roger Federer. From cheering him on at his best matches to enthusiastically applauding the tennisace yesterday for his stellar sporting achievements prior to his retirement, the pair have a sweet friendship both on and off the court, reports Daily Mail.
As the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and an avid sports fan herself, the royal is regularly spotted in the Royal Box and has formed a sturdy bond with the eight-time Wimbledon winner throughout his sporting career.
In 2017, Princess Kate even broke royal protocol by kissing the tennis player’s cheeks three times as she congratulated him for winning his eighth tournament.
The pair’s friendship goes beyond Wimbledon, with Kate and Federer working on multiple projects over the years and the tennis champion even giving her son Prince George a tennis lesson.
He said: “Are you allowed to do that? At Australia, they catch it but in Wimbledon, they don’t!”
His biggest royal fan
Roger Federer of Switzerland is presented with the runners-up trophy by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge after his Men's Singles final against Novak Djokovic of Serbia. Photo / Getty Images
Kate has been cheering on Roger Federer from the sidelines for many years.
She has also been a pillar of support when things have gotten rough for the tennis star, including when he lost to Novak Djokovic in 2019.
The royal, when presenting him with the runner-up trophy, shared some words of consolation and softly patted Federer on the arm as the world watched.
In 2017, Princess Kate even broke royal protocol by kissing the tennis player’s cheeks three times as she congratulated him for winning his eighth Wimbledon tournament.
Three kisses is a traditional greeting in Federer’s home country, Switzerland.
The whole family loves him too - especially Carol
Pippa Middleton and Carole Middleton attend the mens singles final between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer on centre court in 2014. Photo / Getty Images
Federer is not only close with Kate, but the entire Middleton clan.
The family are well-known tennis fans and are often seen attending Wimbledon to watch Federer on the court.
Last year, the pair planned to take part in a joint event, which would see the pair play tennis with schoolchildren in east London.
The Princess and the Swiss sportsman were to meet kids between ages 8-15 for a “memorable and engaging tennis experience”.
This was part of a joint charitable initiative that benefited two organisations backed by the royal.
However, Kate had to cancel due to the late Queen Elizabeth’s passing. It is possible that the duo will organise the charity day for a second time this year.
Very friendly display at Wimbledon
Rodger Federer placed his hand on the Princess of Wales's back in a breech of royal protocol, but the Princess handled it with grace. Photo / Getty Images
Kate Middleton’s close friendship with Roger Federer was on full display yesterday.
The royal looked stunning as she arrived at the All England Club wearing a pleated white skirt paired with a mint Balmain blazer.
