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Dozens of Photos of Kate Middleton Were Taken at the London Olympics in 2012—But One Striking Picture Still Stands Out to Me Most

A dose of royal nostalgia

kate middleton
Andy Cheung/Getty Images

The Paris Olympics are in full swing and have already given us memorable moments from our favorite athletes, like Simone Biles, and unforgettable performances from our favorite musicians, like Lady Gaga and Céline Dion. Lady Gaga even let it slip that she secretly got engaged.

Unfortunately, we're not expected to get any Olympics appearances from the British royal family (even though Paris is just a quick flight away). That said, it was only 12 years ago when Kate Middleton, Prince William, Prince Harry and the rest of the royal gang were photographed over and over again at the 2012 London Olympics. And over a decade later, one Princess Catherine photo still stands out to me.

kate middleton and prince harry london olympics
ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/GettyImages

The above photo was snapped in August of 2012 at the London Olympics closing ceremony. For the historic event, Prince Harry and Princess Catherine were seated next to one another and their close bond was fully on display, particularly in the striking image.

While this photo of the in-laws smiling and laughing together at the ceremony stands out for obvious reasons, there were plenty of other snaps taken during the closing ceremony featuring the duo.

kate middleton and prince harry london olympics
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

The manner in which Prince Harry leans in close to the Princess of Wales is just one more indicator of their close relationship at the time.

Another favorite of mine? A joy-filled image of Prince Harry pointing to show Princess Catherine something out of frame.

prince harry kate middleton olympics london
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

And though this once-close duo spent the closing ceremony bonding, they were joined at other events throughout the London Olympics by Harry's brother, Prince William.

For example, the trio sat together to watch the men's 100-meter finals where Usain Bolt made Olympics history.

prince william prince harry kate middleton london olympics
CARL COURT/AFP/GettyImages

Though it seems like eons ago, the royal three were often photographed together at the time. It's important to remember that this was four years before Harry met Meghan Markle and they began to date. (Obviously, Harry, Meghan, William and Catherine went on to famously become the royal core four.)

kate middleton prince harry prince william
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Of course, I'll be rooting for Biles and the rest of Team USA during these Olympics. But can't a guy also root for a surprise royal appearance as well? (If anyone's accepting requests, I'll take a Kate and Harry reunion, thanks.)

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