A ROYAL expert has told how Prince William’s birthday tribute to Kate is his most moving yet.
Hugo Vickers unpacked the intimate message, saying it signals a new era after the couple’s toughest year to date.
As the Princess of Wales turns 43 she is inundated with love and celebrations, with one particularly touching message from her husband.
In the heartfelt tribute on X, published on January 9, Prince William shared a message to his beloved wife and the mother of his three children George, Charlotte and Louis.
The post read: “To the most incredible wife and mother.
“The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable.
“George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you.
“Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.”
Royal historian Hugo Vickers says William’s birthday message resonates even more strongly this year believing it might signal a new era.
It may have special significance because of the distressing year that has passed.
Hugo said: “William mentioned the word strength, and I think that is one of her quiet qualities.
“It’s sort of an inner strength that she has a confidence and something which is not in any way overt or explicit.
“But it’s just there, and I think that’s one of the things that we admire about her, her resilience and her determination.”
The post follows a punishing year for the family, with Prince William describing 2024 as the “hardest year in his life.”
It came with Prince Charles’ cancer diagnosis, and Princess Catherine’s shock cancer announcement.
The year was branded as “annus horribilis” – one of the worst years the Royals have faced.
Hugo says the Prince’s loving message to his wife is particularly significant this year because of how difficult the last year was.
He added: “I’ve got sympathy for Prince William, because he must have had a pretty difficult year himself, and he has indeed said so, and in fact, he said, it was the most difficult year of his life.
“Having a wife who is not well, and three small children, and all the other responsibilities that come with his position in life, he’s got a lot on his shoulders, and I think he’s handled it very well.”
With words and strength and love being announced from the very start of 2025, it appears the Royals are hopeful for a better year than the last.
Hugo explained the tribute demonstrates solidarity in marriage, teamwork, and the importance of family and unity.
The couple have been through adversity and come through it together on the other side.
Prince William mentioned strength and Hugo believes the post itself emphasises how the couple are strong together.
“We all admire her hugely, and I personally think she’s the great star of the Royal Family, and she’s the great hope of the future,” he added.
“One day she’ll make a wonderful queen.”
Princes Kate celebrated her birthday surrounded by family and said she is preparing for a “gradual return” to royal duties.
