King Charles and Prince William Send Personally-Signed Messages to Lionesses Following Their Loss to Spain

The Lionesses are feeling the love from the royals this weekend. Just yesterday, the team received a special video message from Princess Charlotte, 8, who sent her well wishes to England’s women's national football team as they prepared to compete in the Women’s World Cup final. Now, both King Charles III, 74, and his eldest son, Prince William, 41, wrote notes to the footballers following their loss to Spain.

The monarch of the United Kingdom posted his letter to the official royal family Instagram Story, writing, “While I know how sore today’s result must be, let none of you feel defeated, for to have reached the finals at all is an immense tribute to your skill, determination and team spirit in the finest sporting tradition.”

The king's message could be read in full on the royal family site, where he added, “More than that, though, it will serve as an inspiration for generations to come—and, for that, your place in the history books is assured. With great admiration, congratulations to the Spanish team and with particular gratitude to the people of Australia and New Zealand for hosting such a wonderful tournament.” He ended his letter with his usual signature: Charles R.

Like father, like son, Prince William decided to share his own note to Instagram as well. “Although it's the result none of us wanted, @lionesses you have done yourselves and this nation proud,” the Prince of Wales wrote. “Your spirit & drive have inspired so many people and paved the way for generations to come. Thank you for the footballing memories. Congratulations to Spain.” The prince signed his own message, “W.”

Prince William, who serves as the President of the Football Association, often uses his shared Twitter (now X) account with Princess Catherine, 41, to send messages to the Lionesses.

Meanwhile, King Charles had sent a congratulatory message to the team after their semi-final win, making a post to the royal family Instagram just last week.

However, no members of the royal family were in attendance at the final in Sydney, Australia, but this was likely due to the fact that the family is taking some time off for the summer.

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