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Prince William meets female footballers in Riyadh
The Prince of Wales participated in a training session with young female footballers during his three-day trip to Saudi Arabia, highlighting efforts to boost women's sports in the kingdom.
Diplomatic mission and bilateral talks
Prince William arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday at the UK government's request, aiming to strengthen ties with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit, described as warm and wide-ranging, included discussions on energy transition and youth development-key priorities for Saudi Arabia's modernization efforts.
Kensington Palace confirmed the prince gifted the crown prince an England football shirt worn by captain Harry Kane, symbolizing cultural exchange between the two nations.
Progress and challenges in women's sports
During his visit to Misk Sports City in Riyadh, Prince William met young female athletes, reflecting gradual reforms in Saudi Arabia. Women were barred from attending sports events until 2018, and physical education for girls was only introduced in 2017. The prince's engagement underscores the kingdom's evolving stance on gender participation in sports.
Royal family under scrutiny amid Epstein scandal
The visit occurs amid heightened scrutiny of the Royal Family following renewed allegations against Prince Andrew regarding his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, issued a statement on Monday expressing deep concern for the victims.
A reporter twice asked Prince William about the Royal Family's response to the scandal during the football event, but he did not acknowledge the question from a distance.
Focus on urban development and sustainability
On Tuesday, Prince William toured the Sports Boulevard, an 84-mile (135km) urban regeneration project in Riyadh, which includes sports facilities, green spaces, and cycling paths. The initiative is a contender for his Earthshot Prize, recognizing environmental innovation.
He spoke with local residents, including Reem Alrowaili, 43, who shared her optimism for her daughter's future: "I lived the old days where we were not allowed to do anything, and now I'm really happy for my daughter because she will experience a better life."
Human rights concerns loom over visit
Prince William was briefed on Saudi Arabia's human rights record ahead of the trip, including restrictions on dissent, women's rights, and the criminalization of same-sex marriage. The kingdom has faced international criticism, particularly after the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which a U.S. intelligence report linked to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi officials have denied the allegations.
A royal source told the BBC that Prince William accepted the trip without hesitation, emphasizing his commitment to diplomatic duties: "He takes his role as Prince of Wales very seriously, so when the government asks, he goes."
