Princess Kate Middleton greets King Charles with royal tradition
Princess Kate Middleton once again demonstrated her ability with royal protocol during the second day of Royal Ascot on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The Princess of Wales attended the annual horse racing event alongside Prince William and other senior members of the royal family. After participating in the traditional Royal Procession, the mother of three stepped out of a horse-drawn carriage and greeted King Charles and Queen Camilla. A video published by Hello! magazine shows the Princess of Wales performing a graceful curtsy for her father-in-law, a gesture that highlighted her skill and knowledge of royal traditions.
The Princess of Wales with the perfect curtsy for King Charles 🤌🏻💛 pic.twitter.com/WSxF7Bl3Co
— British Royaltea (@BritishRoyaltea) June 17, 2026
The Princess balances elegance and practicality
Despite the windy conditions at Ascot Racecourse, the Princess managed the moment with grace. While dipping into the curtsy, she carefully held onto her bright yellow hat designed by Jane Taylor. The accessory matched her yellow Roksanda Brigitte dress and added a joyful touch to her overall look. Both Prince William and Princess Kate attended the event on the day of the Prince of Wales’ Stakes, where William later presented the trophy to jockey William Buick after his victory aboard Ombudsman.
Royal Ascot marks another dazzling step in Kate’s return
The outing marked Princess Kate Middleton’s first appearance at Royal Ascot since 2023. The royal did not attend the event in 2024 due to her undergoing cancer treatment and focusing on her recovery. After announcing in early 2025 that she was in remission, the 44-year-old princess has gradually returned to royal duties. This comeback has been met with a positive response, especially considering the Princess’ status as one of the royals with the most star quality, according to writer Russell Myers.
“There’s no denying that everyone concerned has been missing the princess’s star quality. She is a huge draw wherever she goes,” Russell Myers, author of William & Catherine: The Intimate Inside Story, affirmed. “Catherine is undoubtedly a central force in the monarchy’s popularity and ability to achieve its goals and move forward. There is no better time for her to return.”
