This Surprising Royal May Step in For Kate Middleton at Wimbledon

Now that Wimbledon is in full swing, the possibility of Kate Middleton attending this year’s tournament amid her ongoing cancer treatment remains up in the air. Over the years, the avid tennis fan and patron of the All England Club has become a constant (and very stylish) fixture in the stands, and she’s presented trophies to the tennis champions at the event since 2016. With reports that Wimbledon officials are holding out for a decision from the Princess on the morning of, the palace reportedly has a surprising royal replacement that’ll step in to present trophies at Wimbledon if Princess Kate isn’t feeling well enough to attend.

The Duchess of Gloucester is now reportedly being considered if Kate isn’t up for the public appearance, per The Telegraph. While the Duchess isn’t as well known as some of the other British royals, she's a key working family member.

Birgitte is married to Queen Elizabeth’s cousin, Prince Richard, and has reportedly been very involved in taking on some responsibilities from King Charles as he undergoes treatment for cancer. King Charles even recently recognized the Duchess of Gloucester for her help by naming her Royal Lady Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter in April. Plus, just like Kate, the royal is also a huge tennis fan and has been seen in the stands at many Wimbledon matches.

The All England Club Chair Debbie Jevans previously told Telegraph Sport that they’re “hopeful” Princess Kate is able to attend this year’s tournament, but they’re being as flexible as possible to accommodate the royal’s health.

"We're hopeful that the Princess of Wales will be able to present the trophies as the Club's patron, but her health and recovery is the priority," the former tennis pro told the publication. “We don't know what we don't know. All we've said is that we'll work with her and give her as much flexibility as possible."

A final decision on who will be presenting the trophies won’t be made until Saturday morning, when the women’s final is set to take place. While Princess Kate hasn’t attended any public engagements since her highly-anticipated Trooping the Colour appearance, the royal has been watching the Wimbledon matches from home, even sharing a message of support for British tennis player Andy Murray as he closed out his tennis career at this year’s tournament.

“An incredible #Wimbledon career comes to an end," she wrote from her X account, which she shares with husband Prince William. "You should be so very proud @andy_murray. On behalf of all of us, thank you! C.”