Today was The Duchess of Cambridge’s first scheduled engagement after her pregnancy announcement, and she was in good spirits as she took part in a tennis session at Wimbledon.
Kate looked casual in sports gear as she was greeted at the home of the British tennis championship.
kate, duchess of cambridge arrived at wimbledon for a tennis session (kensington palace)
The Duchess became patron of the famous organisation in January, taking over from The Queen, who had served for 64 years. Of course, The Duke of Kent is president of the All England Lawn Tennis Club.
Catherine revealed that she is trying to teach Prince George the game, but he ‘only wants to whack the ball’. A few weeks ago, Judy Murray was giving the Royal tips on teaching children to play tennis, including using balloons.
Speaking to another coach, Sam Richardson – who is responsible for the Tennis for Kids grassroots programme – the Duchess mentioned her attempts to encourage her son. Mr Richardson told her it was better to wait for children “to show interest”.
“She said she had also spoken to Judy Murray, who advised her to take the racket away and just focus on skills,” he said.
Johanna Konta, British tennis ace who got to this year’s Wimbledon semi-final, was also part of the youth session that Kate attended. “All I know is that the Duchess has been very vocal about her passion for tennis,” she said. “I think that is only a positive thing for us.
“I know everyone, including myself, are excited to have her here and touching base with all the great programmes the LTA are championing.”
Some of those at the session were also members of the Coach Core apprenticeship scheme, which is supported by the Royal Foundation; William, Kate and Harry attended a graduation ceremony for those who recently completed the programme.
duches kate was briefed on the developments in tennis during her visit to wimbledon (kensington palace)
At the beginning of her visit, The Duchess of Cambridge was given a briefing, to learn about the developments in tennis. Topics included indoor clay courts, and questioning former British number one Anne Keothavong questions.
After this, she was taken on to the court to train alongside the youngsters. Paired with some children, Kate was seen passing the ball along the floor with a tennis racket, and hand-eye-coordination tasks in the form of throwing a ball, close-range with one hand.
kate takes part in tennis training (kensington palace)
Of course, there was some over-the-net ball play too for the pregnant mother-of-two, who is expecting her third child in April.
Today was also the first time we have seen the Duchess’ new private secretary, Catherine Quinn, who replaced Rebecca Priestly in the role after six years.
