Recent appearances by Carol Middleton, Zara Tindall, and Peter Phillips' girlfriend at Wimbledon have sparked speculation about the family dynamics within the British royal circle.
Their presence seems to send a subtle message to Meghan Markle about familial solidarity. The absence of senior working royals from this year's Wimbledon has been notable, especially given the Royal Family's long-standing association with the prestigious event. Since 2016, Princess Catherine has served as the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, yet no senior royals have attended so far.
However, Carol Middleton, Zara Tindall, and Peter Phillips' girlfriend have seemingly paid tribute to Princess Catherine with their presence at her favorite event and by wearing her favorite fashion house.
On a recent outing to Centre Court, Carol Middleton, Zara Tindall, and Peter Phillips' girlfriend made a joint fashion statement by wearing dresses from the same designer, coincidentally featuring a similar floral print. Carol Middleton opted for a stylish white floral and green dress from ME+EM, which quickly sold out following her appearance. She complemented her outfit with a gray checkered blazer from the same brand and sunglasses from Zanzan, a brand owned by her daughter, Pippa Middleton. Her choice of footwear was tan block heels from Emmy London, priced at £495, completing her ensemble.
Zara Tindall showcased a ME+EM berry print maxi dress, which also sold out post-appearance. She paired it with a green leather clutch from Mana March and white leather espadrilles from Saint Laurent, priced at £740. She accessorized with £49.99 nude sunglasses from Soos. Meanwhile, Peter Phillips attended with his new girlfriend, Harriet Sperling, an NHS nurse. Sperling turned heads in a silk water lily print maxi dress from ME+EM, priced at £375, paired with block heels from Russell and Bromley, costing £245.
Despite these familial displays, uncertainty looms over whether Princess Catherine will present the singles trophies at Wimbledon this weekend. Kensington Palace and the organizers have yet to confirm her attendance, especially amid reports of a cancer diagnosis.
In parallel developments, royal news highlights ongoing tensions between Prince Harry and the British royal family. Stepping back from their senior royal roles in 2020, Harry and Meghan Markle have frequently criticized the monarchy, fueling public debate. Harry, set to receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2024 ESPY Awards, has faced challenges integrating back into royal circles during visits to the UK, often staying in public accommodations due to strained familial relations.
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 that he feels excluded and has expressed concern for Princess Catherine's health following media reports of a cancer diagnosis. Observers speculate on Harry's emotional state, noting his perceived outsider status and longing for familial connections, particularly with the Princess of Wales.
In response to these developments, insiders reveal Harry's alleged distress over his perceived exclusion, contrasting sharply with Meghan Markle's attempts to reach out to Catherine. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains high regarding their reintegration into royal life, with accusations often overshadowing words in the public eye. A source confided to a magazine that the Duke of Sussex feels heartbroken and confused by the way he has been cut off and seemingly ignored.
Some suggest that seeking therapy or mindfulness practices might help him gain the insight he needs. The sentiment is that Harry's repeated complaints and actions, such as Meghan's ventures on significant royal event days, are not convincing anyone that they genuinely want to mend fences with the royal family. Actions speak louder than words, and the public remains doubtful about their sincerity.
