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Prince William Gets Questioned About Kate Middleton During Saudi Trip — His Response is Perfect

Prince William appeared in high spirits as he wrapped up his inaugural visit to Saudi Arabia on February 11. Touching down three days earlier, the Prince of Wales embarked on a packed schedule of diplomatic engagements, including a stop at MISK Sports City in Riyadh on February 10. As he joined a group of girls for a soccer training session, one young fan sweetly stole the moment when she asked whether Kate Middleton would be joining them, a heartfelt reminder of the Princess's enduring global appeal.

The young soccer player raised her hand and said, "I have a question." As the Prince leaned in to hear her, she sweetly asked, "Did Princess Kate come with you?" "No, she's not here, sadly," the heir to the throne replied, prompting a disappointed groan from the group. Footage shared on X (formerly Twitter) showed William then chatting with the girls about the growing role of women in sport. He even participated in their drills and spoke to them about their future aspirations, highlighting the cultural progress in Saudi women's sports.

In January, Kensington Palace announced that William's February visit to Saudi Arabia would be undertaken solo.

But why didn't the Princess of Wales join her husband for his first overseas trip to the country? Turns out, she decided to stay back with their three children in the UK, who are in school this week, commuting from their Forest Lodge home. Her last public engagement was on February 5, when she joined William for a joint appearance at Lambeth Palace in London and met with the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury. Even without his family, the Prince fondly remembered them throughout his trip. As per HELLO!, when asked by one of the girls if he would bring his family to Saudi Arabia, he replied, "They would love it here. Will you show them how to play football? My children love football, but you guys are another level."

After winding up his visit to Misk Sports City, William made a pit stop at a popular cafe, where he received an adorable gift. While speaking with resident Reem Alrowaili and her daughter, Eliana Mufti, the young girl presented him with three grape-flavored lollipops for his children. Her mother fondly described her conversation with William, telling the BBC, "We were talking about the changes and women's empowerment. I am 43 years old. I lived the old days where we were not allowed to do anything, and now I'm really happy for my daughter because she will experience the good life, the better life." 

On the final day of his trip, William focused on environmental and cultural engagements in the historic AlUla region. He toured the Sharaan Nature Reserve to learn about efforts to protect endangered wildlife, including gazelles and the critically endangered Arabian leopard, even planting an acacia tree to honor the conservation program. He also met farmers and residents to understand sustainable agriculture and community initiatives before departing the Kingdom.