Prince William Displays Impressive Volleyball Moves on Cornwall Beach

Prince William channels his inner 'Baywatch Babe' on beach day

The prince showed off his skills Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Prince William decided to ditch his suit and showcase his beach volleyball skills at Fistral beach in Cornwall. On Thursday, May 9, the 41-year-old prince excited the crowds as he set up his serve and practiced his stance. However, much to everyone's amusement, he ended up clumsily slapping the ball into the net.

The crowd cheered him on with a rapturous applause despite his beach blunder. William, though not an expert in volleyball, excels in other sports such as water polo.

During his time at the University of St Andrew’s, he competed for Scotland in the Celtic Nations tournament. Before that, he led both the swim team and the house soccer team at Eton.

In addition to his achievements in swimming and soccer, he has shown talent in basketball, clay pigeon shooting, and cross-country running during his school days. William also excels in water polo and is known for his skills in various other sports.

Prince William channels his inner Baywatch babe on beach day

Prince William Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images

William's volleyball match took place during his first overnight stay away from his wife, Princess Kate Middleton, who was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Prior to hitting the beach in southwest England, he made a stop at the location of a new housing project in Newquay. The project, which was announced earlier this year, will provide 24 living spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness.

For the outing, he wore a navy suit paired with a pale blue button-down shirt. He greeted the project coordinators with a smile.

William and Kate, who are both 42 years old, became the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall in 2022 after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. This visit to Cornwall on Thursday was William's first since receiving his new title.

Prince William channels his inner Baywatch babe on beach day

Prince William, the Duke of Cornwall, had a chat with the members of Holywell Bay Surf Life Saving Club during his visit to Fistral Beach on May 9, 2024, in Newquay, Cornwall, England. (Photo by Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Kate shared in March that she had been diagnosed with a type of cancer after her abdominal surgery two months earlier.

Before Kate's health struggle became known to the public, a source informed us that William had decided to skip two overseas events to take on more childcare responsibilities at home after Kate's surgery.

(The couple, who recently marked their 13th wedding anniversary, have three children together - Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6.)

William is scheduled to visit the Isles of Scilly today, Friday, May 10. During his visit, he will meet with hospital staff and the team at St Mary’s Harbour.

Kate is currently easing back into her royal responsibilities after a break. Her last public appearance was in December 2023, and she has been keeping a low profile as she focuses on recovering. Buckingham Palace has mentioned that her return to official duties will depend on her doctors' advice.

The Princess will resume her official duties once her medical team gives her the go-ahead. She is feeling positive and is determined to fully recover, according to a statement released in March.

The statement also mentioned that William will continue to juggle supporting his wife and family while fulfilling his official duties, a balancing act he has been managing since the beginning of the year.

Editor's P/S:

Prince William's beach volleyball antics brought a lighthearted moment to his visit to Cornwall. Despite his clumsy serve, the crowd's enthusiastic response highlighted the bond between the royal family and the public. His athleticism and dedication to sports are a testament to his active and healthy lifestyle, a welcome reminder of the importance of physical fitness.

The article also touches upon the challenges faced by the royal couple as they navigate Kate Middleton's health journey. William's decision to adjust his schedule to support his wife underscores the deep love and commitment within their family. Their willingness to share their experiences with the public fosters a sense of empathy and understanding, demonstrating that even amidst royal responsibilities, they prioritize their personal lives and well-being.