Prince William, heir to the British throne as the eldest son of King Charles, has left his only daughter Princess Charlotte in surprise with his unannounced move.
The Prince of Wales, who serves as patron of the Football Association, visited St. George's Park on Monday to meet the England Women's football team ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Women's Euros kick-off.
Charlotte's father thrilled top soccer stars as he wished the squad luck for the tournament beginning July 2. William also spotlighted the booming grassroots movement, which has surged since the Lionesses’ triumph at the last Euros.
The future monarch's move might leave his daughter in shock as she's a passionate soccer player herself and has a special connection to the Lionesses.
William and Princess Charlotte released a touching video message to cheer on the Lionesses at the Women’s World Cup in 2023.
The clip came with a message that said: “We’re so proud of everything you’ve achieved and the millions you’ve inspired here and around the world,” William said at the time. “So go out there tomorrow and really enjoy yourselves.”
During the visit, the father-of-three chatted with England Head Coach Sarina Wiegman about the squad’s preparation and strategy for success. He then spent time with several players and their families, hearing how they’re gearing up for the tournament.
The Lionesses kick off their Euro 2025 campaign against France on July 5.
More excitingly, William also took part in a Made for This Game session with junior girls’ teams, joining former Lionesses Rachel Brown-Finnis and Kerry Davis to cheer on the next generation of talent.
The teams, made up of elementary and high school players, were created in the wake of the team's historic victory at the 2022 Euros.