The Princess of Wales found herself at the center of social media debate this week after wearing a sunhat while attending the Wimbledon finals—apparently in breach of the tournament’s official dress code.
Kate Middleton was present for both the Ladies’ and Men’s Singles Finals over the weekend, arriving on Sunday (July 13) with Prince William and their two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Dressed in a royal blue gown, she led her family to their seats to watch Italy’s Jannik Sinner take a dramatic win over Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz.
With London temperatures soaring to 32°C that afternoon, Kate was photographed placing a light-colored woven sunhat on her head—seemingly a practical response to the heat. But eagle-eyed viewers noticed something else: according to Wimbledon’s own dress protocol, hats are discouraged in the Royal Box.
“Ladies are asked not to wear hats, as they tend to obscure the vision of those seated behind them,” the tournament states on its website. The rule is intended to ensure that all guests have a clear view of the court.
The choice quickly drew criticism online, with some commentators questioning why the rule appeared not to apply to Kate. “Hats aren’t allowed in the Royal Box—so others can see,” one Reddit user pointed out. Another added: “Funny how it’s fine when Kate does it.”
The moment also sparked fresh conversation about perceived double standards within the royal family—particularly in light of a 2018 Wimbledon appearance by Meghan Markle. During her first solo public outing with Kate, Meghan attended the Ladies’ Final wearing a white sunhat, but held it in her lap for the entire match. At the time, she was reportedly told that hats were not permitted.
In contrast, Kate’s decision to wear one this year has fueled debate about fairness and optics. Some online users speculated about why similar behavior had drawn different reactions in the past. “If Meghan had worn a hat back then, she would’ve been criticized,” one user wrote. “But Kate gets praised for protecting her skin.”
Others cautioned against overinterpreting the incident, suggesting it may have been a heat-related exception or simply an oversight. Still, the response highlighted how even small details at high-profile events like Wimbledon can quickly become lightning rods for larger conversations around image, public perception, and royal protocol.
Wimbledon organisers have not commented publicly on the matter, and no official statement has been issued by Kensington Palace. Regardless, the incident has once again underscored the intense scrutiny placed on members of the royal family—even down to their choice of accessories on a hot summer day.
