Overview

• Harriet Sperling delivered her first public curtsy to King Charles III at Royal Ascot, wearing a butter yellow gown and coordinating fascinator
• Peter Phillips and Sperling were invited into Tuesday’s official carriage procession, a prestigious honour that underscores royal approval
• Princess Beatrice was photographed sharing a tender moment with Sperling and Princess Anne was seen smiling in her direction, signaling senior royals’ acceptance
• The Princess of Wales’s late withdrawal from Ascot reignited questions about her health, though palace aides say her return to public duties will remain carefully paced
• This year’s procession celebrated its 200th anniversary, framing Sperling’s debut within a tradition dating back to 1825