Kensington Palace shares update as future Queen continues to pace herself during cancer recovery
Prince William made a solo appearance at this year’s Royal Ascot after Princess Catherine was unexpectedly absent, leaving many royal watchers surprised by the last-minute change.
On Wednesday, June 18, the Prince of Wales joined King Charles and Queen Camilla for the traditional royal procession. His arrival came shortly after Kensington Palace confirmed that Catherine would not be attending, correcting an earlier scheduling error.
Despite her absence, the couple’s official Instagram account remained active, offering royal fans a glimpse of William’s day at the races. “A brilliant afternoon of racing at Royal Ascot,” the caption read. “Congratulations to William Buick, the Gosdens and the impressive Ombudsman on winning The Prince of Wales’s Stakes!” The post included several images of the Prince, including one where he presented the winning trophy.
Though smiling for the cameras, body language expert Judi James noted a clear change in William’s demeanor without his wife by his side. “He appeared more subdued, sitting back with a slightly slumped posture,” she told the Daily Express, contrasting his mood with the King’s animated interactions during the carriage ride.
Catherine had just completed a busy weekend with appearances at Trooping the Colour and the Garter Day service. However, as she continues her cancer recovery, experts say she is taking a measured approach to her public schedule.
“She’s being sensible, listening to what her body is telling her and easing back into public life,” said Ailsa Anderson, a former spokeswoman for the late Queen Elizabeth, in an interview with People magazine.
For now, royal supporters will take comfort in seeing William continuing with his duties, while Catherine remains focused on her health and gradual return.
