When you think of Wimbledon, the iconic grass courts and crisp white tennis attire may come to mind — but for royal watchers, the real spectacle is often in the stands. Every summer, the tournament draws a glamorous crowd of celebrities, sporting legends, and global royalty. And among the most eagerly watched guests? The Middleton sisters, Kate and Pippa.

But in 2017, Pippa Middleton found herself briefly denied entry to the most exclusive seats in tennis — the Royal Box at Centre Court — and she’s not the only royal to have broken a rule at the prestigious event.

So, what exactly are these rules? And why is the Royal Box so strictly managed?

A royal invite only — and don’t be late

Wimbledon’s Royal Box isn’t something you can buy your way into. The 74-seat suite overlooking Centre Court operates strictly on an invitation-only basis. Invitations are extended by the chairman of the All England Club and are typically based on recommendations from event organizers, tennis associations, government officials, and commercial partners.

Members of the British royal family are regular guests, as are visiting foreign royals, politicians, military officials, and public figures from the world of sport and media.