Kate Middleton has found herself at the center of criticism after her absence from the Women’s Rugby World Cup final, where England triumphed over Canada in a historic clash on Saturday. For a royal who has positioned herself as a champion of sport and patron of the Rugby Football Union, many expected the Princess of Wales to be front and center. Instead, her absence has sparked questions about her commitment to one of her key patronages.
The highly anticipated match, held in England, was attended by a host of high-profile figures, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney’s journey across the Atlantic to support his national team highlighted the global significance of the event, making the absence of Britain’s own royals all the more glaring.
Observers were quick to point out the stark contrast between the enthusiastic presence of international dignitaries and the silence from the very royals expected to cheer for the home side. For a monarchy often accused of being out of touch, this incident has fueled another round of debate about priorities.
According to reports, Prince William was in Scotland during the match, while Kate remained at home. No official explanation has been provided for her decision not to attend, leaving commentators and fans alike to speculate.
Kate’s absence was particularly striking because of her formal role. Since 2022, she has been the patron of the Rugby Football Union, a role once held by Prince Harry before his royal exit. Many royal watchers had anticipated she would embrace the chance to be visibly supportive at the final.
Instead, the couple offered congratulations on Instagram after the match concluded. “Congratulations to @redrosesrugby, the new Women’s Rugby World Cup Champions!” their message read. They also commended Canada for an “outstanding tournament,” but the digital nod did little to quiet critics.
Ahead of the final, Kate had shared a supportive message along with a photo of her standing with the England team. While her words of encouragement were warmly received at the time, the lack of physical presence when it mattered most has overshadowed those earlier gestures.
Online criticism was swift and pointed. One user on X wrote that the couple’s absence “stands in sharp relief against the attendance of international figures,” adding that it underscored the royals’ “selective approach to duty.”
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Others accused Kate of missing a chance to show leadership at a time when women’s sport is experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition. For a Princess who has frequently spoken about empowering young women through athletics, the optics of staying away have been described as “disappointing.”
Royal commentators have also noted the irony of the backlash. For years, Meghan Markle faced relentless online criticism for perceived missteps or absences from events. Now, similar “tit-for-tat” scrutiny is beginning to follow Kate, proving that no royal is immune to public judgment.
Some insiders argue that Kate’s absence may have been linked to personal circumstances, though no explanation has been shared officially. The lack of transparency has only fueled speculation and frustration.
The incident also raises broader questions about how the monarchy chooses to engage with major cultural and sporting moments. While William and Kate are often praised for their passion for sport, critics warn that selective participation risks undermining their image as relatable and committed public figures.
Supporters of the couple have rushed to defend them, noting that they frequently attend sporting events and that one absence should not define their record. Still, the optics of missing such a historic final have struck a nerve among fans of women’s rugby and royal watchers alike.
As the dust settles, it remains to be seen whether Kate will address the criticism directly or allow it to fade into the background. For now, the Women’s Rugby World Cup final has left the Princess of Wales with questions to answer about visibility, priorities, and the responsibilities that come with patronage.
