As part of her celebration of British sporting excellence, Kate Middleton, teamed up with tennis champion Emma Raducanu for a game of doubles.
This morning, Kate and Raducanu, an 18-year-old tennis prodigy, teamed up at the National Tennis Centre. The Duchess, who is known for her tennis prowess, donned athletic attire and joined Raducanu on the court after congratulating her on her historic victory in the US Open final.
Kate met fellow British US Open champions Gordon Reid and Alfie Hewett, who won the men’s wheelchair doubles, and men’s doubles champion Joe Salisbury during her day at the tennis centre.
The Duchess extolled their accomplishments.
They were “amazing,” Kate said candidly.
“Guys, honestly, congratulations!” she added.
“It’s so nice for all of you to be back here in your home country so we can celebrate you in the home of British tennis,” she said, calling them “seriously impressive.”
The LTA Youth, a programme that helps people aged four to eighteen get involved in tennis, hosted the homecoming event.
Kate met children involved with LTA to hear their aspirations after congratulating Raducanu and her fellow champions.
She also learned more about LTA’s efforts to increase participation.
“Her Royal Highness is passionate about supporting grassroots tennis and encouraging young people from all backgrounds to get involved in the sport,” Kensington Palace said.
Since this summer, Kate, who is the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC), has shown her support for Raducanu.
“Unbiased prediction to win it: @andy murray and @EmmaRaducanu #Wimbledon,” the Duchess tweeted from the official social media account she shares with Prince William during Wimbledon.
The teen had to withdraw from the tournament due to medical reasons, but expressed gratitude for the royal support he had received.
“Ah not quite this time but thank you so much for the encouragement!” Raducanu replied to Kate and William’s tweet.
Raducanu’s response drew the attention of the royals’ official Twitter account, which liked her message.
Kate also kept a close eye on Raducanu’s performance at the US Open, tweeting after the 18-year-old reached the final: “@EmmaRaducanu, what an incredible achievement at this year’s #USOpen!
“Tomorrow, we’ll all be rooting for you. I wish you the very best of luck!”
The Duchess of Cambridge signed off her message with her initial ‘C,’ indicating that she was the one who sent it.
Similarly, following her victory, Kate returned to Twitter and wrote: Huge congratulations Emma Raducanu on your stunning performances and historic Grand Slam victory! We are all incredibly proud of you.
“Fernandez, Leylah Congratulations on your incredible accomplishments at this year’s #USOpen; it’s been a pleasure to watch.”
Raducanu not only impressed the Cambridges, but also the Queen, who sent her a public message of congratulations.
She expressed herself as follows: “I’d like to express my congratulations on your victory in the US Open Tennis Championships.
“It’s an incredible accomplishment for someone so young, and it’s a testament to your hard work and dedication.
“I have no doubt that your and your opponent Leylah Fernandez’s outstanding performances will inspire the next generation of tennis players.
“I send you and your many supporters my heartfelt best wishes.”
