The Duke of Kent has presented the Wimbledon trophy for the final time after 52 years of service as president of the All English Lawn Tennis Club.
His Royal Highness presented the trophy to Novak Djokovic – the Serbian’s third successive Wimbledon win in the men’s singles final.
Djokovic overcame his opponent, Matteo Berrettini of Italy, by three sets to one.
The Duke of Kent made his first appearance as president at Wimbledon in 1969 when he presenting Rod Laver and Ann Jones with their trophies.
Since then, His Royal Highness has been a constant face as the championships, presenting the trophies to the winners each year.
He carried out this role alongside his wife, the Duchess of Kent, until she retired from the role in 2001.
Twenty years later, Prince Edward has decided to step away from his Wimbledon role too.
As a token of thanks, Wimbledon presented the Duke with a special presentation to mark his many years of service to the tennis club.
Prior to presenting Mr Djokovic with his prize, the chair of Wimbledon presented The Queen’s Cousin with a replica of the Men’s Singles Trophy for him to keep.
The Royal Box on Centre Court was filled with members of The Kent Family who had gathered to watch the 85-year-old royal take part in his final trophy presentation.
Among those present to witness the occasion were the Duke’s two siblings – Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra.
Two of his three children, the Earl of St Andrews and Lady Helen Taylor were also in the Royal Box to watch their father’s swansong.
It is understood that from next year, the Duchess of Cambridge will take over the Duke of Kent’s role at Wimbledon and will conduct the trophy presentation.
