Emma Thynn, the Marchioness of Bath, was seen at Wimbledon supporting tennis star Serena Williams, a move that has drawn attention amid ongoing speculation about Duchess Meghan Markle's potential appearance at the tournament during her reported European visit. Meghan, who previously attended Wimbledon in 2019 to support Williams, was not present this year.
Thynn, described by some as a "rival" to the Duchess of Sussex, spoke to Hello magazine about Williams's performance, highlighting her role as an inspirational mother. "Serena said she did it for her daughters. I think that's the best thing in the world to show them how strong she is and how she is doing it with such joy and enthusiasm," Thynn said.
Comparisons between Thynn and Meghan have previously been drawn due to their lifestyle brands and ventures, including homemade jam production. Eagle-eyed viewers have noted similarities between Meghan's Netflix series "With Love, Meghan" and Thynn's YouTube cooking show "Emma's Kitchen." Thynn, who launched her brand in 2015 using the kitchens at Longleat House, has reportedly been creating content there for nine years. Observers have commented on perceived similarities, with some suggesting Meghan is attempting to emulate Thynn, while others find Thynn more natural on camera.
When asked directly about claims that Meghan had copied her, Thynn offered a "no comment." The comparisons have also surfaced in the reality television show "Ladies Of London: The New Reign," where Meghan's name was brought up in relation to Thynn's background as the first Black woman married into an aristocratic family.
Meanwhile, scrutiny has also fallen on Meghan's friendship with Serena Williams. Following a promotion for Meghan's "As Ever" brand on Instagram, Williams shared a video showcasing a PR parcel that included chocolates and candles. The presentation of the chocolates was described as "botched" by some viewers, with Williams stating she "doesn't like chocolate" but had found them delicious. Her commentary on the candle scents, including the pronunciation of ingredients, and the overall casual nature of the promotion led to fan speculation about the state of their friendship.
Further fueling questions about their relationship, Williams was seen at the Met Gala with Thynn and Edward Enninful, the former editor of British Vogue. The trio posed for multiple photos, which led fans to question Williams's closeness with Meghan.
Williams and Thynn are known to be close friends, having vacationed together and with Thynn having appeared on Williams's podcast. Meghan has not attended the Met Gala, and it is not believed she was invited to this year's event, despite Venus Williams serving as a co-chair.
Edward Enninful, who previously described Meghan as a "bi-racial powerhouse," has also cast doubt on future collaborations. When asked about featuring the Duchess in his new publication, he stated, "I feel like I have done it." Instead, he launched the publication with other celebrities, expressing a willingness to feature King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Meghan and Williams first met in 2010 and reportedly "hit it off immediately." Meghan invited Williams to her wedding to Prince Harry and her 2019 baby shower. Williams previously offered Meghan advice on handling media attention, suggesting she "stop being so nice," and praised her "class and poise" in the Oprah Winfrey interview. In 2021, Williams described Meghan as "the strongest person I know."