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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Amber O'Connor

Strict rules of Wimbledon's Royal Box - and strict Kate Middleton protocol change

Every summer tennis fans flock to Wimbledon i n their thousands, eager to see an epic showdown as the best of the best compete.

While most visitors find their own seats, a select few get to enjoy the matches from a the best seats in the hour - Centre Court's Royal Box. And it certainly offers an experience like no other.

With entry by invite only, only the biggest stars get one of the 74 luxury seats, with big names from the celeb and sporting worlds joining members of The Firm.

Even once inside, esteemed guests must follow a very strict set of rules - but they will get some great freebies in return.

While one royal tradition has been scrapped in recent years, Wimbledon prides itself on its heritage and so guests must observe protocol.

Manager of the England football team Gareth Southgate has previously enjoyed the Royal Box (CameraSport via Getty Images)

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The Royal Box dates back to 1922 and it has been used to entertain friends and guests of Wimbledon ever since.

With 74 seats, there is plenty of space for lots of V.I.Ps to enjoy the iconic green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs.

But no matter how important you are, you must be personally invited by the Chairman of the All England Club.

As you would expect, British and overseas royal families are welcome.

The Royal Box seats 74 people (Getty Images)

Invitations are also extended to heads of government, people from the world of tennis, commercial partners, British armed forces, prominent media organisations, and supporters of British tennis, among others.

All lucky guests are also invited to the Clubhouse for their choice of lunch, tea and drinks at the end of the day.

But guests of the Royal Box must meet expectations not required of sports fans seated elsewhere.

The royals always get the best seats in the house (REX/Shutterstock)

Namely, they must dress in smart attire. Wimbledon advises this means wearing a suit or jacket, plus a tie, for men.

However, in contract to other formal occasions, women are asked not to wear hats, so as not to block anyone's view.

Up until 2003, it was tradition for players to bow or curtsey to members of the Royal family, when entering or leaving Centre Court.

But this practice was discontinued in accordance with the wishes of HRH The Duke of Kent, the Club’s President, with the only exception being if HM The Queen is in attendance.

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