Princess Kate defeats Prince William in a curling game in Scotland

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, managed to defeat Prince William, the Prince of Wales, in a friendly curling match held at the National Curling Academy in Stirling, Scotland. During this visit on January 20, 2026, the couple tested their athletic skills, and it was widely noted that Princess Kate achieved this victory while wearing a skirt.

Their first official engagement on this tour, aimed at exploring traditions that connect Scotland's heritage and current communities, was a visit to this curling sports academy.

Both Prince William, 43, and Princess Kate, 44, attempted the sport on the ice, where they participated in a practice session to aim 'curling stones'. Prince William played very smoothly during his practice session and jokingly mentioned that his team members were supporting him with great dedication. However, when it was Princess Kate's turn, she successfully reached her target, and with the support of her team, she was ultimately able to defeat Prince William and claim victory.

For this occasion, Princess Kate was wearing a turtleneck and a skirt, and she made sure to change her footwear for the game. Having worn black heeled boots that morning, she was seen changing into a pair of flat black boots for ease of play on the ice. Prince William also changed his footwear; having worn brown shoes when visiting 'The Kelpies' in Falkirk, he later wore a pair of black sneakers for the match.

The royal couple explored the sport of curling, which has Scottish roots dating back to the 16th century, and also inquired about how teams train for upcoming Olympic Games. William and Kate, who enjoy challenging each other in sporting activities during public engagements, have faced such competitions before, and Princess Kate's victory was reminiscent of her defeating Prince William in a spinning competition in 2023, also while wearing a skirt. Passionate about sports and physical fitness, they continuously work to instill this interest in their children, George (12), Charlotte (10), and Louis (7).
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