Kate Middleton: breaking down her dazzling Wimbledon return

Kate Middleton stole the show at the Wimbledon men’s finals, receiving a hero’s welcome as she took her front-row seat in the Royal Box on July 14. The Princess of Wales, who has been battling an undisclosed form of cancer, was spotted with her daughter, Princess Charlotte, and sister, Pippa Middleton.

Despite her ongoing health struggles, Kate Middleton appeared radiant, and the reception? She literally seemed to lift the entire venue. “This will have given her sustenance,” a palace insider shared with PEOPLE. “She has gone through something awful and stressful, and these little wins are crucial for her energy and courage.”

This rare public appearance, only her second one this year, was planned. Royal author Robert Jobson noted, “It showed a lot of courage and character, as she knew that the world was watching.” Adding to this theory, photographer Karwai Tang, caught the moment of Kate Middleton’s entrance. He highlighted Princess Charlotte’s admiration look for her mother:

“She stood for a while and took it all in. Wimbledon had been waiting with bated breath for her return, and she was back,” the photographer said said.

The Princess of Wales has been focusing on her recovery and her family life, making this outing her second official one this year. Her first public appearance took place at Trooping the Colour, with a palace source confirming she is gradually returning to her duties and doing some work from home.