When it comes to friendly competition, Prince William isn’t shy about revealing who the real champion is in the Royal Family—his wife, Kate Middleton. The Princess of Wales, a known tennis enthusiast and frequent Wimbledon attendee, apparently dominates their matches on the court.
Kate Middleton: The Real Tennis Ace at Home
According to legendary Australian tennis player Rod Laver, who has met the royal couple several times, Prince William openly shared that he can’t beat Kate when they play tennis—likely on the court at their countryside estate. Speaking to the Daily Mail back in 2020, Laver said, “William told me he couldn’t beat her.”
The revelation isn’t shocking to royal watchers. Princess Kate is often spotted in the Royal Box at Wimbledon each summer, and in 2016, she was named patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Beyond being a spectator, the Princess has also played with tennis icons like Roger Federer and Emma Raducanu, the latter calling Kate’s forehand “incredible.”
Competitive Spirit Beyond the Tennis Court
It’s no secret that Prince William and Princess Kate, both 43, enjoy some light-hearted rivalry. Whether it’s a game of table tennis, spin cycling during royal engagements, or sailing in charity races, the couple often goes head-to-head in good spirits.
Their competitive streak doesn’t end with sports. The royal duo has taken on challenges in the kitchen too—competing in cocktail making, rolling dough balls in bakeries, and more. It’s this blend of warmth and relatability that continues to endear them to the public.
Podcast Banter Highlights Kate’s Competitive Nature
In a 2023 appearance on The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast hosted by Mike Tindall—husband of William’s cousin, Zara Tindall—Kate’s competitive edge came up again. When Mike jokingly teased her about being “uber competitive,” Kate playfully denied it, saying, “I’m not competitive at all,” prompting laughter.
Mike then added with a grin, “I’ve seen her play beer pong!”
A Royal Match Made in Fun
From courtside at Wimbledon to cocktail counters and beyond, Prince William and Princess Kate’s playful rivalry is one of the many charming aspects of their public life. Whether it’s her unbeatable forehand or her sharp skills in any game, it’s clear that the Princess of Wales brings her A-game—and Prince William is happy to cheer her on.
