Meghan Markle's 2019 visit to Wimbledon, marked by a controversy over her security detail requesting that spectators refrain from taking photos, is being recalled as rumors swirl about a potential UK visit for the Duchess and Prince Harry. This incident, dubbed 'no photos gate,' saw Markle criticized as 'childish' and a 'control freak' by some attendees and media figures.
During her July 2019 appearance, shortly after the birth of Prince Archie, Markle attended Wimbledon to support her friend Serena Williams. Her security team reportedly approached fans, including a former BBC sports journalist, asking them not to photograph the Duchess as she was present in a 'private capacity.' This was noted in contrast to the more relaxed demeanor of Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, who had visited the tournament shortly before and was seen sitting among the crowd.
Spectators and commentators, including Piers Morgan and Kirstie Allsopp, voiced criticism at the time, with Morgan suggesting Markle should 'go back to America and live privately.' Tatum O'Neal, an American actress, also commented, expressing disappointment and contrasting Markle's behavior with that of Princess Diana.
Meghan Markle has not attended Wimbledon since that 2019 visit. She and Prince Harry stepped down as senior royals in early 2020, relocating to California.
The resurfacing of the 2019 incident comes as Prince Harry and Meghan were reportedly planning a five-day visit to the UK to promote the Invictus Games. This potential trip, their children's first visit to the UK in four years, has been complicated by Prince Harry's request for police protection being denied. A spokesperson for the Sussexes stated that the issue is not accommodation but ensuring 'appropriate and proportionate protective security' is provided throughout the visit.
