Princess of Wales pulls out of Royal Ascot

Catherine, Princess of Wales, was noticeably absent from Wednesday’s Royal Ascot, a high-profile horse racing event she had been expected to attend. The 43-year-old royal was set to join Prince William, King Charles, and Queen Camilla for the day’s festivities in Berkshire, just outside of London.

Many racegoers looked forward to seeing her in the traditional carriage procession. Her last-minute withdrawal came as a surprise. According to palace sources, she felt disappointed to miss the engagement but remains focused on pacing her return to royal duties.

This decision follows months of health struggles and a long recovery. In March, the Princess of Wales revealed a private battle with cancer. Her diagnosis came after undergoing abdominal surgery earlier in the year.

“I am doing what I can to stay cancer free,” she said publicly in September after finishing chemotherapy. Her statement echoed the caution and hope many patients experience after treatment. Experts note that adjusting to life after cancer involves both physical and emotional recovery.

"Remission is a huge milestone, but recovery is ongoing,” said Dr. Sarah Holmes, an oncology specialist at King’s College Hospital. “It’s not uncommon for patients to slowly reintroduce activities while monitoring their health.”

Kate’s return to public life began quietly. She appeared at several summer events but avoided large gatherings. In January, she visited the London hospital where she received treatment. There, she met with medical teams and patients, using the moment to express her gratitude.

A spokesperson for Kensington Palace said the Princess wanted to highlight the important work of the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. “Her visit was deeply personal and full of purpose,” they said.

In a social media post following the visit, Kate confirmed that she was in remission. She also shared how challenging it had been to accept a “new normal.”

“As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust,” she wrote. “There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”

Since then, Kate has participated in key royal events. She joined the Trooping the Colour parade in London and attended the Order of the Garter service in Windsor. Both appearances reassured the public that she remains active in royal duties, even if she’s moving cautiously.

Royal biographer Penny Junor says Kate’s approach reflects a new model for working royals. “She’s setting an example that health comes first, even for someone in her position,” Junor explained. “It’s a powerful message, especially to women balancing family, health, and work.”

Wednesday’s decision to skip Royal Ascot may have disappointed fans, but public support for the Princess remains strong. Social media was filled with well-wishes and praise for her strength.

“I’d rather see her rest than risk another setback,” one user posted on X. “She’s already done so much just by showing up when she could.”

As Kate continues her recovery, palace insiders say future engagements will be carefully planned. There is no confirmed schedule, but she is expected to appear at other events later in the year.

“She’s listening to her doctors and her body,” said a royal aide. “That’s what’s most important right now.”

The Princess of Wales has always been a popular figure among the British public. Her absence at Royal Ascot only highlighted how closely people follow her story—and how much support she continues to receive.

In her own words: “There is much to look forward to.”

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