As the Wimbledon tournament progresses, the absence of Kate Middleton has sparked anticipation and speculation among royal watchers and fans. The Princess of Wales, a known tennis enthusiast and royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, has yet to make her annual appearance at the prestigious event. This year, her attendance carries additional weight, given her recent health announcement and the scrutiny she faces from various quarters, including the Sussex Squad.

Richard Eden, editor for Daily Mail Diary, Eden Confidential, and Palace Confidential, weighed in on the situation, noting that Middleton's presence at Wimbledon has traditionally been as expected as strawberries and cream at the tournament. However, this year, the princess's health has added a layer of complexity. In March, Middleton revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing preventive chemotherapy.

"So it's little surprise that fans are in a fever of anticipation about whether Catherine might make the Wimbledon finals," Eden wrote. Her previous public engagements have been limited due to her treatment, and royal fans are eager to see her return to the public eye, particularly at an event she is passionate about.

However, Eden pointed out that the Sussex Squad, a group of online supporters of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has been vocal about their skepticism. They argue that Middleton attending Wimbledon, despite her absence from more formal public duties, would suggest she hasn't been seriously ill. "They claim, without any evidence, that it would 'prove' she hadn't been sick at all," Eden noted. This kind of trolling is something the princess, like other royals, has had to endure regularly.

Middleton's health status remains a topic of public interest. Before attending Trooping the Colour, she stated she was "making progress" but acknowledged that "there are good days and bad days." She expressed her hope to "join a few public engagements over the summer" while cautioning that she was "not out of the woods yet."

Paul Burrell, Princess Diana's former royal butler, offered insight into the decision-making process regarding Middleton's public appearances. He suggested that Prince William plays a crucial role in determining whether she is well enough to attend events. "William controls this household, and William will decide whether she's well enough to do this because he's the one that protects the family -- fiercely," Burrell said, as reported by The Sun. "There's no way he's going to subject Kate to intrusion that she can't handle."

The potential for Middleton's appearance at Wimbledon has become a focal point not just for tennis fans but also for those interested in the dynamics of the royal family. Her love for the sport and her role as a royal patron make her a significant figure at the tournament. Yet, the concerns about her health and the accompanying public scrutiny add a layer of complexity to what would otherwise be a routine engagement.

While the Sussex Squad's criticisms are vocal, there is also a significant outpouring of support for Middleton from other segments of the public. Many appreciate her dedication to her duties and her efforts to maintain a balance between her health and her public responsibilities. Her potential appearance at Wimbledon is seen by some as a hopeful sign of her recovery and resilience.

As the finals approach, all eyes will be on whether Kate Middleton will grace the stands, symbolizing not just her love for tennis but also her ongoing journey with her health. Her decision will likely be influenced by both her medical condition and the protective instincts of Prince William, who has shown a commitment to safeguarding his family's well-being.