Get a hold of this, Anglophiles: Leaving Kate Middleton and Baby Prince George at home, Prince William knighted two people and bestowed a royal honor upon a Wimbledon champ in Buckingham Palace today.
The Duke of Cambridge, 31, hosted his first ever investiture ceremony Thursday morning at the request of the Queen– a move many speculate as a significant step forward in fulfilling his royal duties, full-time. He presented awards to 90 people, commending their accomplishments, including the sporting successes of tennis player Andy Murray.
Murray, 26, a two-time Grand Slam title holder and Olympic gold medal winner who won Wimbledon in July, received a medal marking his Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from the Prince. The two were snapped smiling and chatting, although the moment would have been lost if Murray, who was randomly drug-tested, had not made it to the ceremony on time. A few hours before heading to the palace with his parents and longtime girlfriend Kim Sears, 25, in tow, the Scot tweeted, “In the middle of a drug test hahaha I’m goin to be late!!”
William is currently in a transitional phase after leaving his military role in September. While he spends time with his wife, Kate Middleton, 31, and newborn son, Prince George, going on 3 months, William’s role officiating an Investiture ceremony is worth noting because it’s considered a senior-level, royal duty. Also, tapped people’s shoulders with a sword! Approximately 25 investitures, typically hosted by the Queen, 87, Prince Charles, 64, and Princess Anne, 63, are held annually.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made a red carpet appearance for the first time together since the birth of their son back in September to benefit Tusk Trust.
