The Princess of Wales Kate Middleton cancelled her expected appearance at the Royal Ascot at the last minute, raising renewed concern over her ongoing recovery following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

Royal experts have described the move as a sign of the princess’s continued struggle to regain strength while balancing her public responsibilities.

Hilary Fordwich, a royal commentator, told Fox News Digital that the princess has been open about experiencing “good days and bad days” as she gradually returns to royal engagements. “She has acknowledged having to be sensible, listening to what her body is telling her as she eases back to public life,” she said.

Fordwich added that the public should anticipate “a lighter schedule of engagements than previously for the foreseeable future,” noting that Princess Catherine’s decisions will continue to be “responsible and dignified.”

Kate, 42, had earlier resumed some official duties, but her absence from Tuesday’s Royal Ascot event — one of the most prestigious fixtures in the British royal calendar — has been described as a prudent decision influenced by medical advice and her health status.

The Princess of Wales, who announced her cancer diagnosis in a video message in March, is reportedly undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy. While palace sources have maintained that her condition is stable and improving, her appearance schedule remains flexible.

Royal commentator Ian Pelham Turner also weighed in, pointing out that the ongoing heatwave in the UK — with temperatures in London surpassing those in parts of the Caribbean — may have also influenced the decision. “I presume Kate may be feeling the effects of this and, still taking aggressive drugs, may have been told by her doctors to be very careful,” he said.

He further added that while the princess is making “steady progress,” she continues to suffer from episodes of fatigue, a common side effect of cancer treatment.

Prince William attended the Royal Ascot on his own, as the palace released no official statement regarding Kate’s absence.

However, there is speculation that the Princess of Wales may attend the upcoming Wimbledon tournament, though royal watchers say this, too, will depend on her health closer to the time.