William Can't Help Cracking a Joke as Kate Praises a 'Super Fit' Athlete During Their Latest Outing
William and Kate visited the Leeds Rhinos to honor the legacy of former player Rob Burrow, who passed away two years ago from motor neurone disease.
After a glitzy night out at last week's movie premiere, Prince William and Kate Middleton were back on more familiar ground, among players and community members at Headingley Rugby Stadium. The Prince and Princess of Wales visited to "learn how the club and the Leeds Rhinos Foundation are changing lives through the power of sport," and found time for a light moment with the athletes along the way.
William and Kate visited the Leeds Rhinos to honor the legacy of former player Rob Burrow, who passed away two years ago from motor neuron disease. Their unexpected visit also surprised Sir Kevin Sinfield during his '7 in 7: The Grand Finale' challenge. Sinfield became visibly emotional in their presence while addressing supporters after completing his third ultra marathon, aiming to raise funds for motor neuron disease charities in memory of his late friend, Burrow.
The Prince and Princess of Wales lauded Sinfield's efforts, calling them "inspiring." "Well done, you," Middleton added, while William said, "It's been very special to watch." Later, while speaking with other young athletes, the Princess praised Sinfield again. "He's super fit. He's doing seven ultramarathons in seven days; that's a lot of running," she said. That's when William's signature humor came through. "If he can walk by the end of it, it's going to be amazing. His poor knees," the Prince quipped, much to everyone's amusement, The Mirror reported.
Middleton, who is the patron of the Rugby Football League, expressed her best wishes to the players heading to the Rugby League World Cup. She looked stunning in a business-inspired outfit that included a green blazer; she chose to recycle her iconic Mappin & Webb “Empress” diamond earrings, which she first wore during Princess Charlotte’s christening in 2015 and since then has worn them over 30 times, including at the 2021 Wimbledon men’s final and various rugby matches in 2023, Town and Country magazine reported.
Meanwhile, William looked dapper in a blue ensemble. In 2024, the Prince of Wales had expressed his condolences on social media, calling Burrow a "legend of Rugby League" with "a huge heart." He noted Burrow's inspirational message about dreaming amidst adversity and sent love to his family.
Last year, William inaugurated the Rob Burrow Center for MND in Leeds, highlighting the late athlete as a "brave and special man." Burrow's widow, Lindsay, expressed gratitude for the prince's attendance, emphasizing the honor of his commitment to open the center, which aims to save lives.
