Prince William breaks social media silence for first time since Kate’s cancer diagnosis sharing tribute to football star
PRINCE William has broken his silence on social media for the first time since his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
The prince, an avid football fan and President of the FA, paid tribute to Rachel Dale who this morning announced her retirement.
Princess Kate, 42, has taken a break from royal duties following planned abdominal surgery in January, and her announcement that cancer had been found.
Kate discussed her “huge shock” at the discovery and said she began a course of “preventive chemotherapy” late in February.
And since then the official Instagram page for the Prince and Princess had been silent.
But today William shared a personal message on an Instagram story.
He wrote: “Thank you for so many unforgettable performances with @Lionesses, @racheldaly3. Plenty more goals for Villa now!”
Daly, 32, made her final appearance for the Lionesses during Tuesday’s Euro 2025 qualifier against Ireland before announcing her retirement.
Daly announced her decision to step down from the national team with a heartfelt statement on Wednesday morning.
It read: “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.
“While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.
“During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.
“It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.
“Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.
“I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.
“I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!
“I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”
Kate’s announcement came just months after King Charles revealed on January 17 that he had been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate and was set to go to hospital.
At the time, the palace said his condition was “benign” and he would undergo “a corrective procedure”.