Queen Claire takes her place in royal box
ANY royal watchers itching to catch a rare glimpse of the Queen at Wimbledon are usually doomed to disappointment.
But yesterday at least they had the consolation of her television counterpart, in the form of The Crown star Claire Foy.
It is the first time the 35-year-old actress, made famous by her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the Netflix drama, was seated in the royal box on Centre Court.
Miss Foy – whose middle name is, fittingly, Elizabeth – looked more than happy to take her place in one of the 74 prestigious green seats yesterday.
Wearing a white, halter neck dress decorated with a floral pattern, Claire, who was joined by her mother Caroline, could be seen excitedly eyeing up the goody bag handed to guests. David Beckham, Dame Maggie Smith, Sir Richard Branson and Sir Cliff Richard all joined Miss Foy in the box to watch seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams secure her place in the final.
The Duke of Kent, 83, is often spotted at the tournament – and has been president of the club since 1969. Princess Michael of Kent, another royal regular, was there yesterday.
Last week, the Duchess of Sussex ruffled some feathers when her security team prevented tennis fans from taking pictures in her direction. She was there to support friend Serena Williams – who last night refused to reveal whether or not Meghan would be attending the finals tomorrow.
The last British players in the main draw crashed out yesterday evening. Evan Hoyt, 24, and Eden Silva, 23, lost their quarter final match in straight sets.