Meghan Markle, the now Princess of Wales, has reportedly been banned from attending Wimbledon following her controversial appearance in July 2019.
The Duchess of Sussex attended the prestigious tennis tournament to support her friend Serena Williams, but her actions sparked a wave of criticism.
During the event, Meghan Markle allegedly claimed ownership of a whole section of member seats, which led to her being personally reimbursed by the Duke of Kent, President of the Lawn Tennis Association.
However, this move did not save her from facing consequences.
One fan, media consultant Sally Jones, described an uncomfortable moment she experienced while sitting on the same row as Harry’s wife.
Jones claimed she was stopped from taking pictures of the tennis match, even though she had no intention of capturing Meghan herself.
A royal protection officer approached her and asked her not to photograph the Duchess, stating that she was there in a private capacity.
Jones expressed her surprise and frustration, stating that the officer seemed embarrassed and confused about the request.
She argued that the presence of television cameras and numerous people taking photos made the situation absurd.
Despite the concerns raised by the royal security, Meghan appeared relaxed and enjoyed watching the match.
Meghan’s choice of attire also drew criticism, with several sources deeming it inappropriate for the occasion.
Specifically, they took issue with her decision to wear jeans in a members’ area at the All England Club, where the tournament takes place.
According to one club member, jeans are not allowed in that area.
Another source mentioned that Meghan wanted to come incognito but faced problems because of her attire.
They added that she couldn’t be invited into the royal box due to her choice of clothing.
Wimbledon enforces a strict dress code for guests entering the exclusive members’ area, including the clubhouse, dining facilities, and the royal box.
Men are required to wear jackets and ties, while jeans are not permitted.
Media consultant Sally Jones further highlighted the unusual nature of the incident, stating that it contradicted royal practice.
She emphasized that members of the Queen’s extended family are generally accustomed to being surveyed or photographed by the public, whether in a public or private capacity.
Jones expressed her surprise at the overzealous security measures taken during Meghan’s visit.
As a journalist with experience covering royal events, Jones shared her observations of the joy ordinary citizens experience when they have the opportunity to be in close proximity to royalty.
She mentioned covering various royal events, from Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s wedding to Prince Edward’s first appearance as a Cambridge undergraduate.
The positive reactions from the public during these encounters stood in stark contrast to Meghan’s experience at Wimbledon.
The controversy surrounding Meghan Markle’s appearance at Wimbledon has resulted in her being banned from future attendance.
Her actions, from claiming ownership of seats to wearing jeans in the members’ area, have ignited a debate about appropriate behavior for members of the royal family.
Despite the ban, it is clear that Meghan’s presence at the tournament attracted significant attention and scrutiny.