Wimbledon ‘working on backup plans’ if Kate is unable to attend final

After her first public appearance for months at Trooping the Colour, royal fans have been anxiously awaiting Princess Kate’s next outing.

They could be in for a treat – the Princess of Wales might attend Wimbledon and present trophies as the tennis club’s patron.

Kate, 42, has stayed out of the spotlight since her shock cancer diagnosis earlier this year, as she undergoes a course of preventative chemotherapy.

All England Club chair Debbie Jevans told the Telegraph: ‘We’re hopeful that the Princess of Wales will be able to present the trophies as the Club’s patron, but her health and recovery is the priority.

‘We don’t know what we don’t know. All we’ve said is that we’ll work with her and give her as much flexibility as possible.’

Previously it was unknown who might take Kate’s place if she is unable to present the trophies at Wimbledon – but another royal is rumoured to be ready to take her place.

According to the Telegraph, ‘informal’ discussions have put the Duchess of Gloucester as the frontrunner of Kate’s replacement if she’s unable to attend Wimbledon this year.

A decision has yet to be made, however, as each morning the presentation party is confirmed.

The 78-year-old Duchess of Gloucester is also a lover of tennis – she’s been an Honorary President of the Lawn Tennis Association for 25 years.

Ms Jevans added: ‘We’re staying flexible. When we hear we’ll then think about what’s the right thing to do.’

Meanwhile, Prince William is thought to still be in Germany as he supports England in the Euros.

William, who is president of the FA, was seen out of his seat and punching the air after England equalised in the 80th minute, around five minutes after Switzerland scored the first goal.

Congratulating the Three Lions, William later wrote on social media: ‘Nail biting to the very end. Well done @England! Semi-finals here we come! We believe. W’

England’s victory over Slovakia reportedly made the royals ‘emotional’, with Kate Middleton and William commenting on the rollercoaster match.

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