Strict rules of Wimbledon's Royal Box as Kate Middleton makes surprise visit

04 July 2023 , 14:41

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The Princess of Wales is no stranger to the royal box (Image: Phil Harris / Daily Mirror)

Every summer, tennis lovers flock to Wimbledon in their thousands, ready to watch the best of the best compete.

Most visitors must find their own seats, as they vie to watch another epic showdown, but a select few will be invited to spectate from Centre Court's Royal Box.

Frequented by sporting royalty and royalty alike, it's common to spot Prince William or Kate Middleton enjoying the best seats in the house.

Today, for instance, The Princess of Wales took pride of place in the box, seated next to former champion Roger Federer, after a surprise visit to Court 18 to cheer on Brit No 1 Katie Boulter.

Invites are extended to heads of government, tennis supporters, and British armed forces, among others (REX/Shutterstock)

But not all tennis fans get the chance to enjoy the sought-after Box. With entry by invite only, only the biggest stars get one of the 74 luxury seats, and once inside, esteemed guests must follow a very strict set of rules.

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While one royal tradition has been scrapped in recent years, Wimbledon prides itself on its heritage and so guests must observe protocol. The Royal Box dates back to 1922 and it has been used to entertain friends and guests of Wimbledon ever since.

Accordingly, you must be personally invited by the Chairman of the All England Club before you can enjoy one of the iconic green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs.

As you would expect, British and overseas royal families are welcome. Invitations are also extended to heads of government, people from the world of tennis, commercial partners, British armed forces, prominent media organisations, and supporters of British tennis, among others.

All lucky guests are also invited to the Clubhouse for their choice of lunch, tea and drinks at the end of the day. But guests of the Royal Box must meet expectations not required of sports fans seated elsewhere.

Namely, they must dress in smart attire. Wimbledon advises this means wearing a suit or jacket, plus a tie, for men.

However, in contrast to other formal occasions, women are asked not to wear hats, so as not to block anyone's view.

Up until 2003, it was also tradition for players to bow or curtsey to members of the Royal family, seated in the Royal Box, when entering or leaving Centre Court.

But this practice was discontinued in accordance with the wishes of HRH The Duke of Kent, the Club's President, with the only exception being if a monarch is in attendance.

Amber O'Connor