Princess Kate Skips Royal Polo for Second Year as She Prioritizes Healing After Cancer Remission

On July 11, Princess Kate Middleton was notably absent from the annual Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Charity Polo Cup held at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor. This event, which her husband, Prince William, regularly participates in, raises funds for causes close to the couple’s hearts. Kate, 43, has historically attended the match, often supporting William from the sidelines. However, she was also absent in 2024 due to ongoing cancer treatment, making this the second year in a row she missed the event.

Kate Focuses on Recovery While Managing Increased Royal Duties After Cancer Remission Announcement

Kate publicly revealed her cancer diagnosis in March 2024 and stepped back from royal duties to undergo chemotherapy. In January 2025, she shared that she was in remission and had completed her treatment. Despite returning to some royal engagements in recent months, she continues to prioritize her recovery. Her absence from the polo match, a familiar and typically low-pressure event, underscores that she is still pacing her return to full-time duties.

The Princess of Wales’s nonattendance came shortly after an intense week of royal responsibilities. From July 8, she and Prince William were deeply involved in hosting the French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte during their state visit to the UK. The couple represented King Charles in welcoming the French dignitaries, participating in the formal carriage procession, a military inspection, and a private lunch at Windsor Castle—duties typically carried out by the monarch and a sign of the couple’s elevated role in royal diplomacy.

Balancing Royal Duties While Embracing Visibility and Prioritizing Her Ongoing Health Recovery

The state visit also saw Kate returning to the public eye in full royal regalia. On July 9, she appeared at a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, wearing a tiara for the first time since 2023. Seated prominently beside President Macron, Kate’s presence reinforced her return to high-level royal engagements, even as she remains selective about appearances. Her choice to skip the polo match just days later may reflect a need to rest after such high-energy commitments.

Kate’s recent hospital visit also shed light on the emotional and physical complexities of life after cancer. During a visit to Colchester Hospital, she spoke openly about the challenges of transitioning out of treatment. She described the phase as unexpectedly difficult, noting that while patients may appear recovered, the emotional toll lingers. “You have to find your new normal and that takes time… it’s a roller coaster,” she said, offering a rare and personal perspective on recovery. Her honesty highlights why she may still need to limit public engagements despite her growing presence in royal events.