Duchess Catherine has admitted she is "less sporty" now she has "lots of babies".
The 36-year-old royal – who is patron of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) – took part in tennis practice sessions with kids at Bond Primary School in Mitcham, south west London, on Wednesday (17.01.18) to see how the Wimbledon Junior Tennis Initiative is getting on, and thanked them for their "hard work".
Catherine – who has two kids, Prince George, four, and Princess Charlotte, two, with Prince William, and is pregnant with their third child – said afterwards: "A big thank you from me as well because I’ve loved playing with you all – it’s so energetic and exciting to be part of it, so well done for all the hard work.
"And I love tennis. I think it’s a great sport, I was really sporty when I was little, less so now that I’ve got lots of babies."
She then patted her baby bump in a nod to her and William’s unborn third child, who is due in April.
Schoolchildren lined up to shake the duchess’ hand as she was leaving but instead they all leaned in to hug her, which Despo Stevens, the school’s head teacher, later admitted was a "delightful" sign of affection.
She is quoted by HELLO! magazine as saying: "How delightful that it didn’t feel like royalty at a distance but royalty amongst the people.
"I’m in awe of how down to earth and engaged she was with everyone.
"The children didn’t hesitate in showing her affection – that is how they are here – and she didn’t seem to mind at all. I’m sure her mothering instinct came out."
The Wimbledon Junior Tennis Initiative works with around 65 schools in the south London area to offer free coaching to youngsters.
Duchess Catherine: I’m less sporty due to parenthood
