Prince William sends emotional message hours after surprise appearance | Royal | News

Prince William took a break from his 15th wedding anniversary celebrations today to send a heartfelt message to Wales great George North, who has announced his retirement from rugby at the end of this season. In a message posted on his and Princess Catherine’s Instagram account, the Prince of Wales, who is patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, said: “Strength and speed on the pitch, George North is at his best.

“There are so many special memories, from the Welsh Six Nations victory to that unforgettable moment when the British and Irish Lions made their trip to Australia. Thank you, George, for everything you have given to Welsh rugby. I wish you all the best for the future.”

William signed with his initial: “W”.

The 34-year-old rugby star said in a video published on X today: “Hi guys, I just want to come here and let you know that I will be retiring at the end of the season.

“It’s the right time for me. I’ve been able to realize my childhood dream by playing with the best players, coaches and back staff for many seasons. I can’t thank my family, my friends and you all enough for the support you’ve shown me over the years.

“Honestly, this meant the world to me. The next chapter? I’m still working on that, but I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. So once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Diolch.”

North retired from international rugby in 2024, making 121 appearances for Wales and touring twice with the British and Irish Lions.

Earlier today, the Prince and Princess of Wales celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary in 2011 by visiting a charity benefiting the Royal Wedding Gift Fund.

IntoUniversity, an education charity, was one of 26 charities they chose for the royal wedding gift fund in 2011. The couple also enjoyed a romantic dinner at the London hotel where Catherine was staying the night before their wedding.

Prince William and Princess Catherine spent 30 minutes at the Walworth Centre; where they joined five students who were part of the charity’s primary school programme, which consists of free immersive educational activities and workshops that support students’ aspirations, attainment and development of key skills that promote success at school and beyond.

Wearing a pale blue jacket over black trousers, Catherine held her children close to her heart by wearing a gold necklace bearing the initials of George, Charlotte and Louis.

William’s message arrives hours later Donald Trump He made the controversial comment during the King and Queen’s state visit to the US.

Mr Trump sparked controversy when he said at the state dinner that the King “agreed with him” that Iran should never be allowed to have nuclear weapons.

As head of state, the King is above party politics and remains neutral. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “The King is naturally conscious of his Government’s long-standing and well-known position on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.”