Prince William Reportedly Facing Pressure to Abandon Polo
Aides are said to favor focus on 'worthy' causes, while sport officials express disappointment.
Senior figures in the sport of polo are reportedly disappointed by a perceived decline in royal interest, suggesting that courtiers surrounding Prince William view the sport as elitist and not in line with modern sensibilities.
According to a senior figure in the sport, palace aides are encouraging the Prince of Wales and the Princess of Wales to concentrate on charitable endeavors such as environmental causes, homelessness, and early years education, rather than participating in polo. This sentiment was described derisively as "not 'woke'" by the polo grandee.
Prince William himself is quoted as saying, "You find me something else where I can raise £1 million for charity in one hour and I'll do it." The source highlighted that this year's polo match raised £1.1 million, but noted that William now participates in only one such match annually, deeming it "pathetic."
Polo has a long-standing association with the British Royal Family. Prince Philip founded a polo club in Windsor Great Park, and King Charles played the sport regularly for four decades, despite enduring several injuries. Both Prince William and Prince Harry learned to play polo as children, receiving coaching from Claire Tomlinson, whose family owned Beaufort Polo Club.
Kensington Palace has declined to comment on the matter. However, royal sources have pointed to William's annual polo match as an indication of his continued commitment to the sport.
Prince George, who recently joined Eton College, which has a polo team, may potentially take up the game in the future.
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