Princess Alexandra of Hanover has announced her engagement to her long-term partner, Ben-Sylvester Strautmann, a German former basketball player. The couple, who have been together for 10 years, shared the news on Friday through a series of photographs posted to Princess Alexandra's personal Instagram account.
The Monégasque royal, who is the granddaughter of the late Princess Grace Kelly, displayed her engagement ring in a smiling photograph alongside her fiancé. The ring, an 18-carat yellow and white gold creation, was designed by Antinori di Sanpietro. The couple's love for Rome inspired its design, which incorporates elements from the Piazza del Campidoglio and features inscriptions like ‘Antinori’ and ‘Made in Italy.’
Princess Alexandra, 27, offered her followers an intimate glimpse into the moment, with photos of her ring accompanying her dachshund, Eloise, and a breakfast spread. The ring box was also pictured on a bedside cabinet.
Messages of congratulations came from various royals and celebrities on social media. Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Lady Kitty Spencer, Princess Diana's niece, were among those who shared their joy. Alexandra Leclerc, wife of Monégasque racing driver Charles Leclerc, also sent her congratulations.
Princess Alexandra is the daughter of Princess Caroline of Monaco and Ernst August, Prince of Hanover. She is 13th in line to the Monégasque throne. Mr. Strautmann, born in Germany, relocated to Monaco as a child and became a professional basketball player before transitioning to a career in finance.
Princess Alexandra and Mr. Strautmann made their relationship public in 2017, having been first spotted together in late 2016. They are known figures in Monaco's social scene, attending events such as the Bal D'Ete in Paris and joining the Princess's uncle and aunt, Prince Albert and Charlene of Monaco, at the Principality’s galas.