On August 15, 2025, the royal family came together to celebrate Princess Anne’s milestone 75th birthday, with Prince William and Kate Middleton leading the tributes with a heartfelt message. Amidst the joyous occasion, a five-word sentence from the Prince and Princess of Wales, “We cherish your strength, dear Anne,” offered a rare glimpse into the deep bond they share with the Princess Royal. This moment, set against the backdrop of Prince William’s recent decision to prepare for his eventual ascension to the throne, underscores the mutual respect and affection that define their relationship, highlighting Anne’s enduring influence within the royal family.

A Milestone Birthday Celebration

Princess Anne, the second child and only daughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, marked her 75th birthday with her characteristic grace and humility. Known as the hardest-working royal, Anne has long been admired for her unwavering dedication to duty, a trait that has earned her respect across the Commonwealth. To honor the occasion, Buckingham Palace released a stunning new portrait of the Princess Royal, taken by renowned photographer John Swannell at her Gatcombe Park estate. The image, capturing Anne’s poised elegance, was shared widely, including by William and Kate on their official social media accounts.

The Prince and Princess of Wales posted a warm message on Instagram and X, writing, “Wishing Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal a very Happy 75th Birthday! We cherish your strength, dear Anne.” The inclusion of this personal five-word sentence stood out, revealing the depth of their admiration for Anne’s resilience and commitment. Fans were quick to praise the couple’s thoughtful gesture, with one X user commenting, “Such a lovely tribute to Princess Anne—William and Kate’s words show how much they value her.”

A Bond Forged in Duty

The relationship between Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Princess Anne is rooted in mutual respect and shared values. Anne, often described as the backbone of the royal family, has been a mentor to William as he navigates his path toward the throne. Reports suggest that William, now 43, has made significant decisions regarding his future as king, including plans to streamline the monarchy and focus on impactful charitable initiatives. Anne’s example of tireless service has undoubtedly shaped his vision, and her influence is evident in the couple’s public and private admiration for her.

Royal expert Hilary Fordwich has noted, “Princess Anne remains most supportive of Prince William’s future as king. She admires his sense of duty and commitment to the crown as well as his being a good family man.” This support is reciprocal, as William has often spoken of his aunt’s dedication as an inspiration. The five-word sentence in their birthday message encapsulates this dynamic, with “We cherish your strength” reflecting both personal affection and professional respect for Anne’s steadfast presence.

Kate, too, shares a special connection with Anne. Both women have carved out roles as modern royals who balance tradition with progress. Kate’s work with early childhood development and mental health mirrors Anne’s long-standing commitment to numerous charities, including the Riding for the Disabled Association, of which Anne has been a patron since 1971. Their shared commitment to service strengthens their bond, and Kate’s inclusion in the birthday message underscores her role as a partner in honoring Anne’s legacy.

William’s Path to the Throne

Prince William’s decision to prepare for his eventual ascension has brought renewed focus on his relationships within the royal family. While King Charles III remains the reigning monarch, William’s proactive steps—such as engaging in high-level discussions about the monarchy’s future and prioritizing his family’s well-being—signal his readiness to lead. Anne’s support has been crucial during this period, with sources indicating that she has offered guidance on balancing royal duties with personal life. Her 75th birthday provided an opportunity for William and Kate to publicly acknowledge her influence at a pivotal moment in his journey.

The birthday tribute also comes at a time when the royal family is navigating significant transitions. With the family set to gather at Balmoral Castle for their annual summer retreat, Anne’s milestone birthday serves as a moment of unity. The decision to keep her seat in the royal family’s metaphorical “dressing room” of influence reflects her enduring role as a guiding figure, much like the symbolic gesture of Liverpool keeping Diogo Jota’s seat in their dressing room as a tribute to his contributions.

A Touching Public Response

The public’s reaction to William and Kate’s birthday message was overwhelmingly positive, with fans flooding social media with praise for Anne’s legacy and the couple’s heartfelt words. One X post read, “Princess Anne is a true royal icon, and William and Kate’s message shows how much she means to them.” Another fan noted, “That five-word sentence says it all—Anne’s strength is what holds this family together.” The warmth of the tribute resonated widely, reinforcing the royal family’s ability to connect with audiences through genuine emotion.

However, the message also sparked reflection on past criticisms. In 2022, William and Kate faced backlash for a simpler birthday post for Anne that lacked a photo, prompting some fans to question their effort. This year’s heartfelt message, complete with a personal touch, demonstrates their commitment to honoring Anne in a way that reflects their deep bond.

A Legacy of Strength and Unity

Princess Anne’s 75th birthday is not just a celebration of her life but a testament to her enduring impact on the royal family and the public. Her tireless work ethic, exemplified by her patronage of over 300 organizations, has set a standard for William and Kate as they prepare for their future roles. The five-word sentence in their birthday message—“We cherish your strength, dear Anne”—captures the essence of their relationship, blending familial love with admiration for her resilience.

As William moves closer to the throne, Anne’s guidance will remain a cornerstone of his approach. The birthday tribute, shared amidst the grandeur of Trooping the Colour and the intimacy of family gatherings, reflects a royal family united by respect and affection. For Kate, William, and the wider public, Princess Anne’s strength is a beacon, and their heartfelt words ensure that her legacy shines brightly on this milestone day.