Recent appearances by Carol Middleton, Zara Tindall, and Peter Phillips' girlfriend at Wimbledon have ignited speculation about the dynamics within the British royal circle, potentially sending a subtle message to Meghan Markle about family unity.
The absence of senior working royals from this year's Wimbledon has been conspicuous despite the royal family's longstanding association with the prestigious event. Since 2016, Princess Catherine has been the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, yet no senior royals attended this year.
However, Carol Middleton, Zara Tindall, and Peter Phillips' girlfriend seemed to pay homage to Princess Catherine by attending the event and sporting outfits from her favorite fashion house. They made a collective fashion statement, coincidentally donning dresses from the same designer with a similar floral print. Carol Middleton wore an elegant white floral and green dress from Me+M, which quickly sold out after her appearance. She paired it with a gray checkered blazer from the same brand, sunglasses from Zanzan (owned by her daughter Pippa Middleton), and completed her ensemble with tan block heels from Emmy London.
Zara Tindall opted for a berry print maxi dress also from Me+M, accessorizing with a green leather clutch from Ana Handbags, white leather sandals from Saint Laurent, and nude sunglasses from Soak. Meanwhile, Peter Phillips attended with his new girlfriend Harriet Sperling, who turned heads in a silk water lily print maxi dress from Me+M and block heels from Russell and Bromley.
Despite these familial displays, uncertainty lingers over whether Princess Catherine will present the singles trophies at Wimbledon, with Kensington Palace and event organizers yet to confirm her attendance amid reports of a cancer diagnosis. In parallel developments, tensions between Prince Harry and the British royal family persist since stepping back from their senior roles in 2020. Harry and Meghan Markle's criticisms of the monarchy continue to fuel public debate, with Harry set to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPYs, highlighting his challenges reintegrating into royal circles during visits to the UK.
Recent events, such as their absence from Trooping the Colour and Meghan Markle's reported venture into jam and dog treat production on the same day, underscore the rift. Sources close to Harry suggest he feels excluded and has expressed concern for Princess Catherine's health following media reports. Observers speculate on Harry's emotional state, noting his perceived outsider status and desire for familial connections, particularly with the Princess of Wales.
In response, insiders reveal Harry's alleged distress over feeling excluded contrasts sharply with Meghan Markle's efforts to reach out to Catherine. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains high regarding their reintegration into royal life, with accusations often overshadowing public appearances.
