Prince William, the Prince of Wales, surprised royal watchers with a quiet visit to Monaco on Tuesday. The royal was spotted at the Stade Louis II stadium, attending the Champions League match between Aston Villa and their opponents, where he was accompanied by one of his closest friends, Thomas van Straubenzee. Van Straubenzee is a well-known figure in the royal circle, serving as Princess Charlotte’s godfather.
Prince William and His Close Friend Thomas van Straubenzee
The game, which ended in a 1-0 loss for Aston Villa, was a quiet moment for the Prince of Wales, who looked pensive as he watched the match unfold. Despite his team’s loss, Prince William appeared to be in deep thought, reflecting on the outcome. His appearance in Monaco was unexpected, especially given that it came only hours after a charity appearance in London, leading many to speculate about his reasons for the sudden trip.
Dressed in a casual sweater over a blue shirt and jacket, Prince William seemed focused as he chatted with van Straubenzee in the stands. The two have known each other since their school days at Ludgrove Prep School, making their bond one of long-standing friendship. Their relationship goes beyond casual acquaintances; they are deeply connected, and van Straubenzee is an important figure in the royal family’s life, particularly in his role as Princess Charlotte’s godfather.
Prince William looks pensive as he watches the match with close pal Thomas van
Aston Villa’s Champions League Loss
The match saw Aston Villa, a team Prince William passionately supports, struggle to secure a win against their rivals. The loss was a disappointment for the team and their supporters, including Prince William, who could not help but show his concern for the game’s outcome. Despite his team’s loss, the Prince continued to show support and enthusiasm for his club, a characteristic trait that has made him a beloved supporter of the Premier League team.
Thomas van Straubenzee’s Personal Life
Aside from his connection to the royal family, Thomas van Straubenzee’s personal life has also been notable. After his marriage to Lady Melissa Percy from 2013 to 2016, he is now married to Lucy Lanigan O’Keeffe, who previously taught Princess Charlotte at St. Thomas’s Battersea. The couple has two children, and van Straubenzee continues to maintain a close relationship with the royal family, particularly with Prince William.
As Princess Charlotte’s godfather, van Straubenzee is an important figure in her life, and Prince William has continued to nurture his friendship with him over the years. Their bond is evident in the public outings they share, like this recent trip to Monaco.
Thomas van Straubenzee is Princess Charlotte’s godfather
Prince William and Prince Albert of Monaco
The match also saw another royal presence in the stands, as Prince Albert of Monaco was in attendance, cheering for his own team. Prince Albert was accompanied by Dmitry Rybolovlev, the president and owner of the club. This added a layer of international flair to the event, as both royals engaged in their shared love for football.
This wasn’t the first time Prince William was spotted at a Champions League game. Last October, he was seen in the stands during Aston Villa’s match against Bayern Munich, where he shared in the joy of the team’s victory. The Prince of Wales has shown consistent support for his football club, and his presence at matches like these is a testament to his dedication to the sport and to his team.
Prince William’s Connection with Aston Villa Fans
Prince William’s relationship with Aston Villa supporters has been well-documented, as he has often taken time to engage with them in informal settings. Recently, the Prince had the opportunity to join a group of Villa fans at a Wetherspoons pub in Birmingham, where they discussed their shared love for the team. The Prince’s effort to engage directly with fans demonstrates his approachable nature and his desire to stay connected with the people who share his passion for football.
During a pre-match gathering ahead of an away game against Everton, Prince William sat with eight Aston Villa fans at a local pub, enjoying a beer and chatting about their favorite team. This informal interaction was a rare moment for fans to meet their royal supporter in a relaxed setting, further endearing the Prince to his fellow Aston Villa enthusiasts.
Prince William has known Thomas van Straubenzee for many years
The Importance of Supporting His Team
Prince William’s trip to Monaco and his ongoing support for Aston Villa are more than just about football; they are a reflection of his dedication to his personal interests and values. Despite his royal duties and the expectations that come with being second in line to the British throne, the Prince makes time for the things he loves, including his passion for sports. His commitment to supporting Aston Villa, whether at home or abroad, highlights his genuine enthusiasm for the game and his connection to the team.
A Quiet Getaway
While the Prince of Wales’ visit to Monaco was not widely publicized beforehand, it was a significant moment for those who were able to witness it. As a public figure, Prince William’s travels are often closely monitored, and his decision to leave the UK for a brief and private trip speaks to his need for personal space, as well as his desire to maintain a connection with his long-time friend and his football team.
This secret trip to Monaco also signals that Prince William is prioritizing personal downtime, despite his busy schedule. It serves as a reminder that even royal figures need moments of respite to enjoy their passions and spend time with friends.
Conclusion
Prince William’s recent trip to Monaco to watch Aston Villa play was a quiet yet significant moment in the Prince of Wales’ life. Whether it was the loss of the match or the opportunity to catch up with his close friend Thomas van Straubenzee, the trip reflects the Prince’s continued support for his football team and his ability to balance royal duties with personal interests. His involvement with Aston Villa and his connection to his fans shows a side of the Prince that many can relate to, further cementing his role as a beloved and dedicated public figure.
With his ongoing commitment to family, football, and royal duties, Prince William continues to be a source of inspiration for many, both within the UK and around the world.
