Princess Kate Broke Royal Protocol and Kissed Tennis Star — Not Once, but Thrice as William Watched
The royal family is deeply rooted in its traditions and customs, and what distinguishes them from commoners is their lifestyle driven by strict protocols and rules. While breaking protocol is usually frowned upon, Kate Middleton is known to occasionally breach some. Such was the case when the Princess made headlines for kissing Wimbledon star Roger Federer, not once, not twice, but thrice while Prince William watched on.
Middleton’s fondness for tennis is known to all. The Princess has often mentioned how watching the sport was a huge part of her childhood. Besides her, her parents and siblings are also fans of the sport. The Princess of Wales was also made the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in 2016 by the late Queen Elizabeth and given the responsibility to hand out trophies. Since then, she became a regular at Wimbledon and gradually formed a close friendship with Federer.
The Princess has been joined by several members of the royal family, court side, cheering on. According to Tyla, in 2017, both Middleton and William witnessed the final match of Federer against Croatian Marin Cilic. As the tennis legend won his eighth men’s Wimbledon title, the couple congratulated him wholeheartedly. Later, Middleton planted not one but three kisses on the sportsman’s cheek. While it may seem like she broke the forbidden royal rule of not touching others, Middleton was in fact, following a sweet Swiss greeting tradition (Federer’s native country).
Middleton and Federer have shared an amicable relationship and even sat next to each other in the royal box in 2023, watching Elena Rybakina and American Shelby Rogers play. Upon greeting Middleton, Federer allegedly also broke protocol when he leaned in to give Middleton a kiss on the cheek. He was also seen placing his hand on Middleton's back during a conversation. As per the royal code of conduct, a member of the family cannot be touched unless they themselves initiate a handshake. Rogerer's lapse proved the close friendship he shares with the Princess.
According to Town & Country magazine, Federer once shared his experience of watching the game with Middleton. He said, “It was so fun sitting next to Princess Catherine. I know her quite well. She is an avid tennis fan, and she plays herself.” However, he had to take care of one thing as he explained, “Sometimes we have to be careful we don’t speak too much. You can talk, and then it's super-quiet, and then you have to applaud.”
Middleton and Federer have also played friendly tennis matches where the former showcased her skills. The Swiss player also once turned tutor for Wales’ firstborn, Prince George, at their Norfolk home, Amber Hall. Commenting on the same, Federer said at the time, “His mum has always enjoyed tennis. I hope he’ll stay the same in a few years’ time and this is not just an in-the-moment situation.”