The Prince and Princess of Wales, known to be some of the most recognizable figures globally, were once just like any other young couple in love.
They enjoyed going out, celebrating birthdays with friends, and cherishing their time together.
Although public displays of affection are now rare, there are still moments that capture the hearts of royal enthusiasts.
Recently, a photograph resurfaced online, showcasing a young Catherine stealing a kiss from Prince William during a picnic at Beaufort Polo Club.
This endearing moment occurred on June 21, 2008, which also happened to be Prince William’s 26th birthday.
The future king, along with his then-girlfriend Catherine, Prince Harry, and a group of friends, gathered in the rain to watch the Williams-Dubrow polo test match at the Beaufort Polo Club, while also toasting to William’s special day.
In this snapshot from the noughties, Kate, the “it-girl” of that era, can be seen wearing low-rise black jeans, an oversized navy knit jumper, and a baseball cap.
Her natural, bushy curls cascade down her shoulders, adding to her charm.
This image represents not only a moment of laughter shared between the couple but also one of their sweetest memories.
Fast forward two decades, and the Prince and Princess of Wales seldom engage in public displays of affection.
However, during a recent visit to the Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre, a rare moment of PDA occurred.
Prince William gently brushed a stray hair away from his wife’s face, causing royal fans to gush over their loving bond.
Middleton, blushing like a schoolgirl, looked up at her husband with a grin and giggled, offering a glimpse into their relationship.
Fans flooded the video’s comment section with red hearts and heart-eyed emojis, expressing their adoration for the couple.
It is evident from the way they speak about each other that there is a deep sense of pride, love, and respect in their relationship.
William and Catherine have essentially grown up together, having met at university and navigating their way through their 20s, marriage, parenthood, and the responsibilities that come with being future monarchs.
After more than a decade of marriage and three children, it’s easy to forget that their journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing.
While the couple has always tried to keep their relationship private, reports emerged of a time when Prince William left Catherine in tears by canceling an important plan while they were still dating.
According to journalist Caden Inchell, the couple couldn’t spend Christmas together in 2006 because, despite dating for five years, only married couples were invited to Queen Sandringham’s celebrations.
To compensate for being apart on Christmas Day, they made big plans for the new year.
However, everything changed when William called Catherine on Boxing Day and informed her that he would be staying with his own family instead, breaking his promise to spend time with the Middletons.
Their love story began at St. Andrews University in 2001, where both studied History of Art, although William later switched to Geography.
Catherine, being six months older than William, played a crucial role in encouraging him to continue his studies during his challenging first year.
William, wary of commitment due to his parents’ troubled marriage, had doubts about their future together.
He sought advice from his father and grandmother, who advised him not to rush into anything.
In April 2007, news broke that the couple had split, leaving sources to claim that the Queen was disappointed.
However, just weeks later, they were spotted kissing at an army party in Bovington, Dorset, putting any worries to rest.
The rest, as they say, is history.
The early days of Prince William and Princess Catherine’s relationship were filled with sweet moments and challenges.
From stolen kisses during a rainy picnic to a recent tender display of affection, their love story continues to captivate royal enthusiasts worldwide.