Kate Middleton moved by emotional standing ovation at Wimbledon after cancer battle

LONDON, ENGLAND: Kate Middleton was visibly moved by a surprise standing ovation at Wimbledon on Saturday, July 12.

The 43-year-old royal made her return to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, where she serves as patron for the women’s singles final on July 12. As she entered the Royal Box at Centre Court, the crowd rose to its feet, erupting into sustained applause and cheers that took the princess by surprise.

Kate Middleton receives heartfelt standing ovation as she returns to Wimbledon finals

Captured in a now-viral video shared by the tournament’s official account on X (formerly Twitter), Kate Middleton was seen smiling warmly, blinking back emotion, and taking a deep breath as she waved to the crowd. The caption accompanying the clip read, “Centre Court rises to give a warm welcome to our Patron HRH The Princess of Wales,” punctuated with the tournament’s signature purple and green heart emojis.

Saturday’s appearance marked a significant milestone for Kate, coming more than a year after she publicly announced her cancer diagnosis and almost six months after confirming her cancer was in remission.

In a heartfelt video message in March 2024, she revealed that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy and would be stepping back from royal duties.

Sporting a serene smile and understated elegance, Kate was accompanied to the event by Wimbledon chair Debbie Jevans. Upon taking her seat, she exchanged greetings with tennis icon Billie Jean King, who offered a respectful curtsy.

Wimbledon has long been a beloved tradition for the princess, who is known for her genuine enthusiasm for the sport. Her attendance each year has become one of the most anticipated royal appearances of the summer calendar.

Last year, she shared the experience with her daughter, Princess Charlotte, during the men’s final, another moment that drew warm applause from spectators as mother and daughter beamed from the Royal Box.

Internet reacts as Centre Court gives Kate Middleton a standing ovation at Wimbledon

The Princess of Wales received a heartfelt standing ovation as she made her return to Wimbledon on Centre Court, sparking a flood of emotional and admiring reactions online.

One user wrote, “English good looks and character, that's what Kate exemplifies. A sterling woman.”

Another added, “Wonderful to see her looking so well.”

The Princess’s grace amid adversity was a recurring theme with one user saying, “Always humble and always kind. Love to see it!”

Another user commented, “What a beautiful and well-deserved welcome. The Princess of Wales carries herself with such quiet strength & elegance, Centre Court knew exactly who they were standing for.”

Many praised her strength with one writing, “She’s a lovely Princess, and having beat cancer and continued to carry herself stoically throughout, she’s a terrific role model for young women everywhere.”

One wrote, “Hard not to like her. So pretty and dignified. Considering what she's been through, the applause is genuine and well-deserved.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.