Prince William revealed that his passion for football intensified when his favored team, Aston Villa, was relegated from the Premier League. He described the experience of supporting the club through its battle to return to the top tier as a significant motivator.
During an appearance on the "New Heights" podcast hosted by NFL player Travis Kelce and his brother Jason Kelce, William discussed the emotional impact of supporting Aston Villa. "My weekend goes from being either the best we can in the world when we win... Or frankly, I don't want to see anyone on Monday morning because I'm really down," he stated.
William recalled becoming an Aston Villa supporter approximately 26 years ago after attending a game against Bolton. He clarified that his father, King Charles III, has no interest in the sport, responding to a question about inherited fandom by saying, "Absolutely not. My father hates football."
He also cautioned the American hosts about the more boisterous elements of football fandom, hinting at "spicy" and "rude" chants that are not suitable for broadcast. William, who serves as the president of the Football Association, offered concise management advice for the role: "Just don't mess up."
The Prince of Wales also named several English players he considers among the greatest of all time, including Sir David Beckham, Gary Lineker, Harry Kane, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Sir Bobby Charlton. He specifically noted Harry Kane's potential to become one of England's greatest strikers.