Prince William and Kate Middleton mark 15 years since their engagement, a moment that laid the foundation for their future as king and queen, an expert said.
The Prince and Princess of Wales announced their plans to marry in November 2010, after William proposed during a trip to Kenya with Princess Diana’s famous sapphire ring.
Speaking on the topic, royal expert Jennie Bond said OK! Magazine that the announcement brought a “national sigh of relief” to royal fans.
He noted that it showed Kate confident, personable and ready to take on royal life.
“I think there was a sort of national sigh of relief when William finally announced his engagement to Catherine,” he said.
“The relationship had lasted almost a decade: they broke up for a short period, then they got back together, but still, he didn’t put a ring on her finger. And then came the announcement that he had proposed to her in Africa. Phew!”
And she continued: “I’m sure they both felt the weight of history on their shoulders when they decided to get married. Catherine was not only marrying the man she loved, but she was coming to terms with being a future queen, with all the responsibility that entails.”
“She also subjected herself to a lifetime of scrutiny from the press and the public. And that is a pressure few of us can imagine. But, all these years, she has proven that she is up to the challenge and has reclaimed her place in the public’s affections.
“I think the basis of their relationship is that they met like so many young couples do, at university, and were friends before becoming lovers.
“And that friendship has clearly deepened, along with their love for each other, as the years have gone by.”
