 |
Ads
The British royal family is known for its long-standing traditions and adherence to formal protocols, often setting them apart from the rest of society. Every movement, interaction, and gesture in public is governed by an intricate set of rules designed to uphold the dignity and decorum of the monarchy. Yet within this rigid framework, Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has sometimes been observed gently bending those rules — and in a way that endears her even more to the public. One such moment that captured widespread attention was her public display of affection towards tennis star Roger Federer at Wimbledon. With Prince William by her side, Catherine greeted Federer not once, but with three kisses, a gesture seen by many as both affectionate and unorthodox for someone of her royal standing.
While minor protocol breaches may raise eyebrows, they also reflect the Princess's genuine warmth and relatability. Her actions speak of someone who respects tradition but is not afraid to bring a touch of her own personality into her royal duties. This was especially apparent during her recent appearance at the Wimbledon men's singles final — an event she attends not only as a royal patron but also as a passionate tennis fan.
Ads
Another unexpected highlight of that day came not from the royal family, but from Hollywood. Matthew McConaughey, the award-winning actor known for his southern charm, turned heads with a simple yet powerful gesture. As Prince William and Princess Catherine entered the Royal Box, McConaughey rose from his seat in respect. Though Americans are not obligated to follow royal protocol — something the Etiquette School of New York has clarified — his decision to stand was widely interpreted as a sign of admiration for the royal couple. A video capturing the moment quickly spread online, earning praise from royal watchers, many of whom described McConaughey as a classic southern gentleman.
This moment drew a subtle contrast with past behaviors of other public figures associated with royalty, notably Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Observers recalled an instance in which Harry had stood waiting for women to be seated, only for Meghan to pull him down to sit next to her prematurely. The anecdote sparked commentary about cultural differences and how someone raised with more traditional values — such as those often found in the American South — might have adapted more seamlessly into royal life. It’s a conversation that reflects broader debates about etiquette, upbringing, and the challenges of integrating into the monarchy.
Ads
Since returning to public life after a period of recovery, Catherine has brought a renewed sense of grace and authenticity to her royal engagements. Every appearance feels like a carefully choreographed balance between duty and personality. Wimbledon, in particular, offered her the perfect stage to showcase this blend. As she walked into the Royal Box, her face lit up with genuine excitement, a moment of human joy amidst the pomp. Sitting beside tennis legends like Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova, Catherine’s wide-eyed expression betrayed her inner fan, offering a rare glimpse beneath the polished exterior.
The audience's response to her presence was overwhelming — a standing ovation. In return, Catherine offered only a modest, shy wave, a gesture that quietly distanced her from the grandeur of her station and connected her more deeply with the crowd. It echoed the humility once so often associated with Princess Diana. Unlike the formal waves used by the Queen Mother or Queen Elizabeth II, Catherine’s restrained response felt more like a personal acknowledgment than a ceremonial one.
Ads
That same warmth was evident in her interaction with eight-year-old Lydia Lo, a young girl who had overcome a traumatic brain injury. Lydia was selected to represent the Dan Maskell Trust and had the honor of performing the coin toss for the wheelchair final. Catherine spoke with her kindly, asking about her nerves and favorite players, and showed a sincere interest in the child’s remarkable journey — another testament to the Princess's ability to connect on a deeply human level.
Later, Catherine offered heartfelt support to American tennis player Amanda Anisimova, who had just endured a difficult defeat. As Anisimova accepted her runner-up prize with tears in her eyes, Catherine reportedly told her, "You should be so proud." It was a small but meaningful phrase, delivered in a moment that called not for royal detachment but compassionate empathy. Anisimova later described her interaction with the Princess as surreal and deeply touching, noting how Catherine’s kind words made the experience unforgettable.
Ads
And then there was the now-famous triple kiss to Federer. While royal protocol usually calls for one or perhaps two kisses in formal greetings, Catherine opted for three. Observers speculated this was in deference to Federer’s Swiss heritage, where three kisses are a customary sign of friendship. It wasn’t the first time Catherine shared a public moment with Federer either. Years earlier, she had presented him with a runner-up trophy after a marathon match against Novak Djokovic — a ceremony that went on so long that Catherine eventually had to step in and take control of the proceedings.
What these episodes show is a Princess who is confidently navigating the tightrope of royal life. She honors the expectations of her role but infuses it with her own humanity and empathy. Whether she’s embracing a child who’s overcome great odds, consoling a defeated athlete, or offering a modest wave in place of a regal gesture, Catherine continues to win hearts not just by the title she holds, but by the way she c
hooses to wear it.
Post a Comment