The Princess of Wales disclosed her enthusiasm for padel during a Buckingham Palace garden party on Friday, describing the racquet sport as an ideal activity for family bonding.
Speaking with Lawn Tennis Association representatives, the 44-year-old royal expressed her fondness for the game, asking: “Have you adopted padel? I love padel, it’s such a good game, such a great leveller for those who don’t play tennis.”
Catherine also highlighted the sport’s inclusive nature when chatting to another attendee.
“It’s so sociable and all generations can play – I play with my parents,” she said.
The Princess of Wales disclosed her enthusiasm for padel during a Buckingham Palace garden party on Friday, describing the racquet sport as an ideal activity for family bonding.
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PA
The future Queen has sporting interests ranging from taking part in rugby training sessions to spin bike competitions against Prince William.
Padel has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity despite being invented during the 1960s, with the Lawn Tennis Association now labelling it “the fastest-growing sport in the world”.
The organisation characterises the game as “an innovative form of tennis” that appeals across generations, from young children to grandparents.
The sport’s appeal lies partly in its low barrier to entry, with players of any age or ability can quickly pick up a racquet and participate.
Catherine also highlighted the sport’s inclusive nature when chatting to another attendee.
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PA
Catherine’s endorsement of padel as “a great leveller” for non-tennis players reflects this broader trend of the sport attracting newcomers who might find traditional tennis more challenging.
The Prince and Princess of Wales hosted the event, which marked the second garden party of the season, alongside Zara Tindall and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
Catherine wore an outfit from Self-Portrait, one of her favourite designers.
Catherine wore an outfit from Self-Portrait, one of her favourite designers.
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PA
Her monochrome ensemble featured a tailored white blazer with black buttons and a cinched waist, paired with a flowing pleated skirt adorned with delicate black polka dots.
The Princess of Wales completed her look with a white hat embellished with black floral details.
Perhaps most notably, she wore a pair of earrings that once belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II, adding a touching tribute to her grandmother-in-law to the occasion.