Piers Morgan called the request for privacy “hypocritical” on Good Morning Britain, questioning whether the Sussexes truly wanted to be public figures. “If you want privacy, don’t attend high-profile events like Wimbledon,” he argued.
TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp also weighed in, suggesting on social media that being photographed comes with the territory for those in the spotlight — whether in entertainment or royalty. “You’re lucky to have the privileges,” she wrote.
Even Hollywood chimed in. Actress Tatum O’Neal, speaking as the former wife of tennis icon John McEnroe, found the whole situation “tacky” and unfavourable when compared with the late Princess Diana’s warm, inclusive public presence.
Some sources called the visit ‘a nightmare’ while others defended it
An unnamed Wimbledon official reportedly described the planning around Meghan’s visit as a “nightmare.” There were also rumours she had broken club dress code rules by wearing jeans in a members-only area — a detail that raised eyebrows within royal and tennis circles.
However, tournament organisers were quick to push back against the negative narrative. A spokesperson for the All England Club praised Meghan’s presence, calling her visit “a privilege” and confirming that she had been personally welcomed by the club chairman.
A week later, Meghan returned to Wimbledon — this time with Kate Middleton and Pippa Middleton. The joint appearance was widely viewed as a PR effort to dispel rumours of tension between the sisters-in-law. Still, some royal commentators suggested the cordial display only masked deeper issues behind the scenes.
With the tournament now underway again in 2025, Meghan’s 2019 outing remains a reminder of how royal appearances — even at leisure events — are never just private moments.
