During a visit to Wakefield Trinity on Tuesday, the Princess of Wales shared that her daughter, Princess Charlotte, has moved away from playing rugby, despite having enjoyed the sport in the past. Catherine noted that while Charlotte participates in various sports, rugby is no longer one of them. This is a significant change from last year when RFU President Nigel Gillingham revealed that the Princess of Wales had mentioned the family often played rugby together in their garden, highlighting Charlotte’s competitive nature.
Although rugby is off the table, Charlotte’s love for physical activity is very much alive, with gymnastics being her current favorite. The 10-year-old expressed her passion for gymnastics during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where she engaged enthusiastically with athletes and volunteers. Tim Lawler, chief executive of Sports Aid, recounted how Charlotte proudly stated, “It’s gymnastics that I like,” when discussing her sporting interests.
The Wales family encourages exploration of various sports, with both Prince William and Catherine being athletic themselves. Charlotte’s interests are diverse, extending to track and field, where she is reportedly training in the 400 meters and hurdles. Olympic gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson revealed that Prince William spoke to her about his daughter’s pursuits, indicating that watching elite athletes has inspired Charlotte’s engagement in sports.
In addition to gymnastics and track, Charlotte is also keen on football, showcasing her goalkeeping skills. During an interaction with the England women’s football squad in 2022, her father relayed her enthusiasm by saying, “Charlotte wanted me to tell you that she’s really good in goal.” This confidence reflects not only Charlotte’s budding sports talents but also the competitive spirit fostered within the royal family.
As Princess Charlotte continues to explore her athletic abilities, it’s heartening to see the support she receives from her parents, cultivating a foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle.