England footballer Chloe Kelly has been nominated for the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, and Prince William will likely be proud.

Chloe went viral over the summer after scoring the decisive penalty in England women’s nail-biting shootout victory over Spain in the Euro 2025 final.

Among her many supporters is the Prince of Wales. He witnessed the historic moment in July in Basel.

Prince William was among the first to congratulate Chloe Kelly after her game-winning kick sealed England’s victory (Credit: Tayfun Salci/ZUMA Press/Cover Images)

Prince William’s bond with Lioness Chloe Kelly

William, a lifelong football fan and patron of the FA, was seen warmly congratulating the Lionesses after their win, and his personal exchange with Chloe quickly captured attention.

As the team lined up to receive their winners’ medals, lip readers caught the touching words Prince William shared with Chloe.

“That kick was no nonsense,” he reportedly told her with a grin, before pulling her in for a congratulatory hug. “Well done, you. Honestly, fantastic.”

Chloe is one of six nominees for this year’s BBC Sports Personality of the Year, set to be awarded later this month.

While many believe her back-to-back heroics with the Lionesses make her the ideal winner, she faces stiff competition from Formula 1 champion Lando Norris, golfer Rory McIlroy, and rugby star Ellie Kildunne.

Also in the running are England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and teenage darts sensation Luke Littler.

Chloe’s SPOTY nod comes in a year when women’s football has never been more in the spotlight.

The UK has recently launched a bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, a project Prince William has publicly supported.

“Exciting times ahead! W,” he posted on social media after the bid was announced.

The young footballer has been nominated for Sports Personality of the Year (Credit: Heike Zwanziger/Future Image/Cover Images)

Prince William’s support for the Lionesses

The Prince of Wales has maintained a strong public presence in his support for the Lionesses.

In July, he and Princess Charlotte travelled to Switzerland for the final match. The prince beamed with pride as he handed out medals and embraced players, as Charlotte also cheered from the stands.

Speaking about the royal family’s encouragement, Lioness Lucy Bronze previously told HELLO!: “I remember when Charlotte was born. We had a little England Lionesses kit made for her.

“[Prince William] has been to almost every pre-camp. He always comes and says good luck to us in person. It’s always nice to have a little chat.”

Following England’s dramatic victory in July, the official social media account for the Prince and Princess of Wales posted: “An incredible night for @Lionesses and @England in Basel. Congratulations to Sarina, the team and all the support staff. Champions!”

Prince William’s relationship with English women’s football has grown steadily over the years, but few connections have resonated as warmly with the public as his bond with Chloe Kelly. As she earns a nomination for BBC Sports Personality of the Year, attention has naturally turned not only to her achievements on the pitch, but also to the moments of genuine connection she has shared with the Prince of Wales. Their interactions, often quiet and sincere rather than ceremonial, reflect a deeper story about respect, encouragement, and the evolving place of women’s sport within the national consciousness.

From the outset, Prince William has been a visible and committed supporter of football in all its forms. As President of the Football Association, his role goes beyond appearances, and his interest has consistently extended to the women’s game. Long before women’s football enjoyed its current level of popularity and recognition, William was attending matches, meeting players, and advocating for greater visibility. This long-term commitment laid the groundwork for relationships built on authenticity rather than obligation.

Chloe Kelly’s rise within that landscape has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for her explosive pace, fearless attitude, and decisive moments under pressure, she embodies the qualities that have helped redefine perceptions of women’s football in England. Her performances have not only delivered results but have inspired a new generation of fans and players. When Prince William has spoken to Kelly, it has often been with an understanding of the sacrifices and resilience required to reach that level, a recognition that resonates deeply with her journey.

One of the most widely remembered moments connecting Prince William and Chloe Kelly came in the aftermath of England’s historic triumph at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. Kelly’s extra-time goal in the final against Germany instantly became one of the most iconic moments in English sporting history. As celebrations unfolded, Prince William’s presence felt less like that of a distant royal figure and more like that of a proud supporter sharing in a collective national joy.

In the days and weeks following that victory, William’s interactions with the Lionesses, including Kelly, were marked by warmth and genuine admiration. He publicly praised their courage, unity, and determination, often highlighting individual contributions while emphasising the importance of the team. For Kelly, who has spoken about the emotional intensity of that tournament, these moments of recognition carried significant weight.

The bond between Prince William and Chloe Kelly is perhaps best understood through their shared values. Both place immense importance on teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. William has often spoken about how sport teaches life lessons, particularly resilience in the face of adversity. Kelly’s career mirrors that philosophy. She has faced serious injury setbacks, periods of uncertainty, and the pressure of performing on the biggest stages, yet she has consistently returned with strength and confidence.

When William has engaged with Kelly in public settings, his approach has been notably personal. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes or trophies, he has asked about recovery, mindset, and the emotional toll of elite sport. These conversations, though brief, have reflected an understanding that athletes are people first, competitors second. For Kelly, this acknowledgment has reinforced the sense that her achievements are valued not just for what they represent symbolically, but for the human effort behind them.

As Chloe Kelly receives a Sports Personality of the Year nomination, it marks another milestone in her career and in the broader recognition of women’s football. SPOTY has long been seen as a measure of national appreciation, and her inclusion signals how deeply her impact has been felt beyond the pitch. Prince William’s visible support during this period underscores the role he has played in elevating the profile of female athletes through consistent advocacy rather than fleeting gestures.

William’s support has also extended to moments away from the spotlight. He has been vocal about the importance of funding, facilities, and long-term development pathways for girls in football. These issues are ones Kelly has also championed, using her platform to speak about access and opportunity. Their alignment on these matters strengthens the sense that their bond is rooted in shared purpose rather than protocol.

The emotional depth of their connection became especially apparent during moments of challenge. When England faced setbacks in international competitions after their Euro success, William remained a steady presence, offering encouragement rather than criticism. Kelly, who thrives on emotional energy, has spoken about how support from figures like William reinforces belief during difficult periods. Knowing that achievements are seen in context, rather than judged in isolation, can be transformative for an athlete’s confidence.

Prince William’s engagement with Chloe Kelly also reflects a broader shift in how the Royal Family connects with modern Britain. By championing women’s sport and celebrating athletes like Kelly, William aligns himself with cultural change, acknowledging evolving definitions of national pride. His interactions feel less formal and more reflective of contemporary values, where authenticity and shared experience matter deeply.

For Kelly, being recognised by someone in William’s position has added a unique dimension to her journey. She has always credited her success to family support, grassroots coaches, and teammates, but royal recognition places her achievements within a national narrative. It reinforces the idea that women’s football is no longer a niche interest but a central part of the sporting landscape.

As the SPOTY nomination brings renewed attention, Kelly’s story continues to inspire. From playing football with her brothers in London to scoring the goal that changed English sporting history, her path has been defined by determination and belief. Prince William’s consistent presence along that path, particularly at pivotal moments, has helped amplify the significance of those achievements.

The public response to their bond has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have noted the sincerity in William’s interactions and the respect he shows toward Kelly and her teammates. In an era where public figures are often scrutinised for performative gestures, the enduring nature of William’s support stands out. It feels earned, not staged, and rooted in a genuine appreciation for the sport and its players.

William’s relationship with Kelly also highlights the power of visibility. When young girls see a future king celebrating a female footballer with the same enthusiasm historically reserved for male athletes, it sends a powerful message about equality and possibility. Kelly’s SPOTY nomination amplifies that message, reminding audiences that excellence transcends gender.

As the awards season unfolds, Prince William’s role is likely to remain one of quiet encouragement rather than overt endorsement. Yet his influence is undeniable. By consistently showing up, listening, and celebrating achievements like Kelly’s, he helps shape public perception in subtle but lasting ways.

Chloe Kelly’s nomination is not just a personal honour; it is a reflection of how far women’s football has come and how much further it can go. Prince William’s touching bond with her symbolises that journey, bridging tradition and progress, recognition and respect. Their connection tells a story not just of royal support, but of shared belief in the power of sport to unite, inspire, and redefine what is possible.

In the end, what makes their bond so compelling is its simplicity. It is built on mutual respect, genuine admiration, and a shared understanding of the importance of perseverance. As Chloe Kelly stands among the nominees for Sports Personality of the Year, Prince William’s support feels less like a headline and more like a quiet affirmation of everything she represents: resilience, courage, and the enduring impact of believing in yourself when it matters most.

As Chloe Kelly’s Sports Personality of the Year nomination brings her story back into the national spotlight, the emotional resonance of her bond with Prince William feels deeper and more symbolic than ever. This is no longer simply about a royal figure congratulating a successful athlete, nor is it only about an extraordinary footballer receiving long-overdue recognition. It is about a shared moment in time, a relationship shaped by belief, respect, and the quiet power of encouragement that has grown alongside the rise of women’s football itself.

For Chloe Kelly, every accolade carries the weight of a journey that has never been straightforward. Her path has been defined not just by talent, but by resilience in the face of setbacks that could have easily derailed her career. Long periods of injury, uncertainty about her future, and the relentless pressure of elite sport tested her resolve repeatedly. Through it all, she held onto a deep, almost instinctive belief that she belonged on the biggest stages. That belief was reinforced in moments when those in positions of influence recognised her not as a novelty, but as a serious athlete whose contributions mattered.

Prince William’s support has consistently reflected that understanding. When he speaks to Kelly, it is not with detached admiration but with genuine curiosity about her experience. His words have often acknowledged the emotional highs and lows that accompany professional sport, recognising that triumphs are inseparable from sacrifices. In doing so, he has offered something more meaningful than praise: validation. For an athlete who has fought to be seen and heard in a system that once marginalised women’s football, that validation carries immense emotional weight.

As the SPOTY nomination sparks reflection, it becomes clear that the bond between William and Kelly represents a broader cultural shift. Women’s football is no longer fighting for legitimacy; it is claiming its place at the heart of the national sporting identity. Kelly’s nomination is a symbol of that transformation, and William’s visible pride in her achievements reinforces the message that this change is both necessary and celebrated at the highest levels of society.

There is something profoundly human in the way William has responded to Kelly’s moments of triumph. After her iconic goal at Euro 2022, his reaction was not choreographed or distant. It was immediate, emotional, and shared with a nation still processing what it had just witnessed. That goal was more than a winning strike; it was a release of decades of frustration, hope, and underestimation endured by women’s football. William understood that instinctively, and his response reflected the magnitude of the moment.

For Kelly, that recognition arrived at a time when she needed it most. She has spoken openly about the emotional toll of elite sport, the pressure to perform, and the vulnerability that comes with carrying expectations. To have those efforts acknowledged by someone who embodies national tradition and continuity was both affirming and grounding. It reminded her that her journey mattered not just to fans, but to the broader story of English sport.

As time has passed, their connection has continued to evolve in quieter ways. It is seen in William’s continued presence at women’s matches, in his consistent advocacy for the women’s game, and in the respect he shows toward players as individuals. For Kelly, this consistency matters. It signals that support is not conditional on victory alone, but rooted in respect for the process, the effort, and the humanity behind performance.

The emotional depth of this bond is also shaped by what it represents to others. Young girls watching Kelly receive recognition see more than a footballer being celebrated; they see a future that feels attainable. When that celebration is echoed by Prince William, it sends a powerful signal that women’s achievements in sport are not secondary or symbolic, but central to national pride. This visibility has the power to reshape aspirations, to make dreams feel valid rather than improbable.

Kelly’s SPOTY nomination arrives as a culmination of years of perseverance, but it is also a reminder of how much remains to be done. The women’s game continues to fight for equal resources, respect, and coverage. Prince William’s ongoing involvement in these conversations adds weight and legitimacy, helping to keep momentum alive beyond headline moments. His bond with Kelly embodies this sustained commitment, demonstrating that real change requires more than applause; it requires presence.

Emotionally, this recognition invites reflection on how far Kelly herself has come. From playing football in environments where opportunities were limited, to standing among the nation’s most celebrated sporting figures, her journey is marked by courage. Each challenge she faced shaped her into a player who thrives under pressure, who embraces responsibility, and who understands the power of belief. William’s support did not create that strength, but it affirmed it at critical moments.

As the SPOTY ceremony approaches, there is a sense that the outcome matters less than the moment itself. Kelly’s nomination already stands as a testament to her impact, and William’s visible pride underscores that significance. It is a reminder that recognition is not just about trophies, but about acknowledgment of effort, influence, and inspiration.

The emotional connection between them also reflects a shared understanding of legacy. William, as a future king, is acutely aware of the importance of shaping a modern, inclusive narrative of national identity. Supporting athletes like Kelly aligns with that vision, highlighting values of equality, perseverance, and collective achievement. For Kelly, legacy takes a different form: inspiring the next generation, leaving the game stronger than she found it, and proving that belief can overcome barriers.

In moments of quiet reflection, it is easy to see why this bond resonates so deeply. It is not built on formality or obligation, but on shared respect and mutual recognition. William does not stand above Kelly in these moments; he stands alongside her, as a supporter, an advocate, and a witness to her journey. That dynamic challenges traditional hierarchies, offering a more contemporary image of leadership grounded in empathy.

As public attention grows around Kelly’s nomination, the emotional narrative becomes richer. Fans are not just celebrating goals or performances; they are celebrating resilience, representation, and progress. William’s presence within that narrative amplifies its meaning, connecting personal achievement to collective pride.

There is also a quiet strength in the way Kelly carries herself through this recognition. She remains grounded, often redirecting praise toward her teammates and the broader women’s football community. This humility mirrors the tone of William’s support, which consistently emphasises collective success over individual glory. Their shared emphasis on teamwork reinforces the values that underpin their bond.

As the story continues to unfold, the lasting impact of this connection will likely be felt long after awards are handed out. It will live on in the increased visibility of women’s football, in the confidence of young players, and in the cultural shift toward genuine equality in sport. Kelly’s SPOTY nomination is a milestone, but it is also a marker of ongoing change, one that William has helped nurture through consistent, heartfelt support.

Emotionally, the bond between Prince William and Chloe Kelly serves as a reminder of what recognition can mean when it is sincere. It can validate years of unseen effort, ease the weight of expectation, and inspire belief in others. For Kelly, that recognition has arrived not as a fleeting moment, but as part of a sustained relationship that honours her journey in all its complexity.

As she stands among the nation’s sporting elite, Chloe Kelly carries with her the hopes of a generation and the pride of a country learning to see women’s sport through a new lens. Prince William’s support, woven quietly through her story, reflects a shared understanding that progress is built through respect, presence, and belief. Their bond, touching in its simplicity, captures a moment of transformation in British sport and society, where achievement is celebrated not because it fits tradition, but because it redefines it.

In the end, this story is not just about a nomination or a royal connection. It is about the power of recognition to uplift, the importance of belief to sustain, and the quiet impact of standing beside someone as they step into history. Chloe Kelly’s journey continues, and with it, the enduring significance of a bond that reflects how far women’s football has come and how bright its future can be.