Tennis Legend Gifts Memorable Memento to Prince Louis Upon Departure from Wimbledon
Princely Kicks from a Tennis Great
Looks like Prince Louis hasn't been grinning from the royal box at Wimbledon just yet, but the future king already has a special link to the tennis classic. In 2019, during the Men's Singles Final, tennis legend Stan Smith presented a personalized gift to none other than Princess Kate for Prince Louis.
Stan, now 78, graciously bestowed a pair of Adidas Stan Smith trainers on the Princess of Wales, to pass along to her youngest lad, our little Prince. The shoes were inscribed and signed with a charming message: "To Louis." At the time, these shoes were described as a priceless memento by those close to the royal household.
Prince Louis, now age 7, hasn't made his debut at Wimbledon, unlike his elder siblings George (11) and Charlotte (10), who have been photographed enjoying the tournament with their parents in recent years. While Louis seems eager to join in the fun, his youth may be the reason behind his delay in attending. Wimbledon's traditional etiquette regarding young kids in the royal box could be the culprit behind the wait.
In spite of not attending in person, Prince Louis has already shown a keen interest in tennis at home. According to his mother, young Louis has even started learning the sport. Princess Kate divulged that Louis practices standing like the ball boys in the garden while she plays tennis, mimicking their serious stance.
The royal family isn't the only one captivated by tennis. Princess Kate, known for her passion for the sport, is the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Kate can often be seen at the tournament and was even recorded playing with tennis star Roger Federer for Wimbledon's official channel. During a 2022 visit to Wimbledon, Kate disclosed that all her children, including Louis, are involved in playing tennis. In fact, a few months later, she was caught there with George, enjoying the Men's Final together.
Giving signed trainers to Prince Louis was viewed as a sweet gesture from one sporting legend to the next generation. The Adidas Stan Smith trainers originated in 1963 when Adidas entered the tennis shoe market and created the first-ever leather tennis shoe, initially marketed under a different name and design[2]. The shoe later got rechristened after Stan Smith, the American tennis champion who wore and endorsed the model, creating an iconic status. Popular for their simplicity, comfort, and timeless aesthetic, the Adidas Stan Smith trainers have gained enduring popularity across the globe and different cultures.
With George and Charlotte already involved in tennis and young Louis getting the hang of it, it seems that tennis will continue to be a significant part of this royal household. Until Prince Louis officially steps onto Centre Court, he can cherish his signed Adidas Stan Smith trainers with fond memories of his connection to the prestigious Wimbledon tournament.
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The royal family, with its latest addition, Prince Louis, have shown a keen interest in sports, particularly tennis, as evidenced by the Adidas Stan Smith trainers given by tennis legend Stan Smith to Prince Louis in 2019. princess kate, the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, has even been seen playing tennis with tennis star Roger Federer, setting a trend for her children, including Prince Louis, to learn and enjoy the sport.
