Prince William shared a new message today (Image: Getty)
Prince William interrupted his 15th wedding anniversary celebrations today to send a heartfelt message to Wales great George North, who has announced his retirement from rugby at the end of this season. In a message posted on his and Princess Catherine’s Instagram account, the Prince of Wales, who is patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, said: “Strength and speed on the pitch, George North at his very best.
“So many special memories, from Wales Six Nations triumphs to that unforgettable moment on the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia. Thank you, George, for everything you’ve given to Welsh rugby. Wishing you all the very best for the future.”
William signed with his initial: “W”.
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Prince William’s message on Instagram (Image: Instagram)
The 34-year-old rugby star said in a video on X today: “Hi guys, I just want to come on here and let you know at the end of the season I’ll be retiring.
“For me, it’s the right time. I’ve been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons playing with some of the best players, coaches and the staff behind. I can’t thank my family, my friends and you guys enough for the support you’ve shown me over the years.
“Honestly it’s meant the world to me. The next chapter? Still working on that one, but I’m excited to see where that journey takes me. So again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Diolch.”
North retired from international rugby in 2024, having earned 121 caps for Wales and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions.
Earlier today, the Prince and Princess of Wales celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary by visiting a charity which benefitted from their Royal Wedding Gift Fund in 2011.
IntoUniversity, an education charity, was one of the 26 charities they chose for the royal wedding gift fund in 2011. The couple also enjoyed a romantic meal at the London hotel where Catherine stayed the night before their wedding.
Prince William and Princess Catherine at IntoUniversity (Image: Kensington Palace)
Prince William and Princess Catherine spent 30 minutes at the Walworth Centre, where they joined five students who are part of the charity’s primary school programme of free immersive educational activities and workshops which support students’ aspirations, attainment and development of key skills that promote success at school and beyond.
Catherine, who wore a pale blue blazer over black trousers, kept her children close to her heart by wearing her gold necklace with the initials of George, Charlotte and Louis.
William’s message comes hours after Donald Trump made a controversial comment during the King and Queen’s state visit to the US.
While at the state dinner, Mr Trump sparked controversy after he said the King “agrees with him” that Iran should never be allowed nuclear weapons.
As head of state, the King is above party politics and remains neutral. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “The King is naturally mindful of his Government’s long-standing and well-known position on the prevention of nuclear proliferation.”