Jannik Sinner's 'difficult' chat with Kate Middleton and family after Wimbledon victory
by Jake Bayliss, Brian Dick, Hanisha Sethi · Derbyshire LiveTennis prodigy Jannik Sinner dazzled the Wimbledon audience and provided Prince George and Princess Charlotte with an unforgettable experience as they conversed with the newly-crowned champion. The young royals, accompanied by their parents, enjoyed prime viewing from the Royal Box on Centre Court, witnessing Sinner's victory over Spain's Carlos Alcaraz.
The 23 year old Italian secured his maiden Wimbledon title after overcoming Alcaraz in a gripping match that ended 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. Post-match footage showed an endearing exchange between 11 year old Prince George, 10 year old Princess Charlotte, and the triumphant Wimbledon winner, who presented them with a memorable souvenir.
The Princess of Wales, who had been honoured with a standing ovation at Wimbledon the day before, watched proudly as her children interacted with Sinner. The tennis ace autographed three small green tennis balls for the Royal children, which he then gave to Princess Charlotte.
Despite his composed presence on Centre Court, the Italian revealed he initially struggled with how to approach Princess Kate and her family.
"In the beginning, I didn't know what to say," Sinner confessed in the post-match press conference. "It's difficult to understand, you know, how you can talk. I always try to talk very natural.", reports the Mirror.
"I asked the kids if they play tennis and asked them what kind of rackets they play with, these kind of things. It was amazing. I believe for us tennis players, it's so nice to have them watching us because it makes it even more special.
"You see how much they care about tennis and the sport itself. It's very prestigious. I've been lucky to meet [the Princess of Wales] and the whole family, and it was a very nice moment."
Following his match, Sinner returned two signed tennis balls before being presented with a third by Princess Charlotte. Princess Kate shared a heartfelt detail, noting: "They've got one for their brother as well," as the young royals delightedly received the autographed items.
As patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Princess Kate expressed her appreciation for the swift update of champions' names on the winners' board after having had the honour earlier to award the victorious Sinner.
Princess Charlotte and Prince George, conducting themselves with regal decorum, extended form