Everywhere the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has been in the last two decades - the world has followed. A royal appearance from the future Queen of England is enough to secure pandemonium among press and supporters. But the welcome she received when she attended the men's singles final at Wimbledon on July 14 – only her second public appearance of the year – was a reminder of her power to inspire and unite.
Wearing a purple dress from London-based fashion label Safiyaa, the Princess of Wales, who is the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, made a brief return to public life after her cancer diagnosis, in order to continue her tradition of presenting the Wimbledon champion their trophy.
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But it wasn't just her appearance that garnered headlines, it was the reaction of the crowds on No.1 Court that warmed the world. As The Princess of Wales entered the Royal Box with Princess Charlotte and her sister, Pippa Middleton, ripples of the audiences stood to mark their respect until almost every member of the crowd was on their feet and applauding. Middleton beamed at her sister, visibly moved by the audience's response.
There is little doubt the past few months have been challenging for the Royal Family, but to watch The Princess of Wales be received with such support was a timely reminder that small actions can bolster.
And the meaning of her very appearance – a political figurehead, a wife, a mother, a daughter, and a sister – who is believed to still be undergoing treatment for cancer showing up and smiling was a much-needed show of strength in these tremulous times.
In June, the Princess of Wales expressed her gratitude for her fans well-wishes saying via social media; ‘I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months… It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times.’
This moment at Wimbledon was also a reminder of the Princess of Wales reliability as a role model, dedicated to the many requirements of being royal today. Be it during university years, the day of her wedding or the birth of her children, we have grown up alongside her, and it's been this sense of ownership that has challenged many amid her understandable disappearance from public life to focus on her recovery.
This appearance from her and the visible message of optimism that she employed will ensure she is an adored role model for many years to come.
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