Fans told not to photograph Duchess of Sussex as she is spotted at Wimbledon
A tennis fan was approached by a bodyguard after he thought she was taking a photo of the Duchess of Sussex at Wimbledon.
Tuesday 9 July 2019 23:03, UK
A Wimbledon fan has spoken out after she was told by a protection officer for the Duchess of Sussex to not take photographs of her as she was there in a "private capacity".
Sally Jones, a media consultant, told the Daily Telegraph she was seated in the same row as the royal on Court One last week.
Ms Jones, who says she was actually taking photos of Serena Williams and had not noticed the duchess, claimed the bodyguard said: "Would you not take photographs of the duchess. She's here in a private capacity."
Photographs of Meghan watching the tennis with her friends at Wimbledon show another fan standing in front of her and taking a picture, before being approached by a man thought to be a royal bodyguard.
A close up the man's screen shows he was actually taking a selfie with the tennis court in the background.
The duchess is also seen greeting a young fan wearing a US-themed outfit in the stand behind her.
Ms Jones described her experience as "another example of silly control freakery" and added the bodyguard appeared "quite embarrassed" when she reminded him the event was being televised.
Buckingham Palace has not commented.
The privacy of the Sussex family has come under scrutiny recently, after they decided not to reveal details of their son's godparents, following his private christening at the weekend.
Graham Smith, from Republic, which campaigns for an elected head of state, said: "The police have no business telling people what photos they can take.
"When public figures are in public people will take photos, that's life.
"Meghan and Harry can't expect special treatment or police protection from curious bystanders.
"Their recent behaviour suggests they want all the privilege and public money but can't even tolerate the public more than they have to."