Prince William may be first in line to the throne, but when it comes to tennis, he’s happy to take second place – especially if it means losing to his wife.
When it comes to a little friendly competition, the Prince and Princess of Wales are no strangers. But behind closed doors, at their country estate in Norfolk, there’s one clear champion. And it’s not William.
Tennis legend Rod Laver spilled the tea back in 2020, recalling a chat with the royal couple during a Wimbledon appearance. “They play tennis against each other,” Laver told the Daily Mail. “William told me he couldn’t beat her.”
Kate Middleton, now 43, isn’t just a keen player – she’s been the official patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club since 2016. She’s played doubles with Roger Federer, rallied with Emma Raducanu, and shows up at Wimbledon every year with the same intensity as a finalist.
Middle of the Court, Top of the Game
Even off the grass courts of SW19, Kate keeps the competition alive. Over the years, the royal couple have taken each other on in charity sailing, cycling races, and even cook-offs. There’s footage of them racing around a track and rolling dough at a bakery – all in good fun, but never without a little edge.
Mike Tindall, William’s cousin-in-law, revealed another side to Kate during a 2023 episode of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast. “I’ve seen her play beer pong!” he laughed. Kate played coy, insisting, “I’m not competitive at all.” No one believed her.
William may wear the military uniforms, but it’s Kate who’s the tactical one when the games begin. And clearly, he’s not mad about it.
“She’s got a wicked forehand,” said Raducanu in a Hello! Magazine interview. “It’s actually very impressive.”
With the Princess regularly showing up (and showing off) at Wimbledon, it’s no wonder even her husband has accepted defeat. At least when it comes to tennis.
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