Royal Rugby Rivalry: William and Catherine Champion Women’s World Cup
On Saturday, September 6th, the Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, displayed their steadfast commitment to rugby, albeit in separate locations and for different nations, during the Women’s Rugby World Cup. While Princess Catherine rallied behind England, Prince William lent his support to Wales, underscoring their distinct royal patronages within the sport.
Princess Catherine’s Support for the Red Roses
Princess Catherine, patron of the Rugby Football Union in England since February 2022, attended a thrilling match between England and Australia. The Princess was spotted at the American Express Stadium in East Sussex, cheering on the Red Roses. Her patronage, a significant appointment, notably marked the first of Prince Harry’s former royal responsibilities to be reallocated following his and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from their working roles within the Royal Family.
Prince William Backs Wales in Exeter
Meanwhile, over 170 miles away in Exeter, Prince William, who has served as the patron of the Welsh Rugby Union since 2016, attended the encounter between Wales and Fiji at the Sandy Park stadium. The Prince’s long-standing connection to Welsh rugby highlights his dedication to the nation’s sporting heritage, a role he has embraced for nearly a decade.
A Shared Royal Passion for Rugby
Despite their divided loyalties on the pitch, the royal couple shares a profound passion for rugby, a love they actively cultivate with their three children: Prince George, 12; Princess Charlotte, 10; and Prince Louis, 7. This familial enthusiasm for the sport has even sparked a friendly rivalry within their household. Royal editor Roya Nikkah of The Sunday Times reported Prince William’s humorous observation that the rugby debates had become “quite the thing in the house,” though he endeavors to “stay out of it.”
Continuing Royal Engagement
Their separate appearances at the Women’s Rugby World Cup follow a significant joint engagement earlier this year. In March, the Prince and Princess of Wales attended the Wales vs. England Six Nations Match, an outing that was particularly poignant as it marked their first time at such a game in years, occurring amidst Princess Catherine’s treatment for cancer. During this visit, the royal couple engaged with injured players supported by the Welsh Rugby Charitable Trust, of which Prince William is also a patron, and met players and their families in the Sir Tasker Watkins Suite, demonstrating their active involvement beyond mere spectating.
Through their dedicated patronages and public support, Prince William and Princess Catherine continue to champion the sport of rugby, fostering its growth and celebrating its spirit across both England and Wales, reinforcing the royal family’s enduring connection to national sports.
