While he didn’t walk away with the winner’s trophy, tennis legend Novak Djokovic has spoken of how “nice” it was to see Princess Catherine in “good health” during her Wimbledon return.

Djokovic suffered a 6-2 6-2 7-6 defeat to his opponent Carlos Alcaraz during the Wimbledon Men’s Final on Sunday, July 14 on Centre Court.

Although Djokovic missed out on the win, the 37-year-old was delighted to receive the runner-up trophy from Princess Catherine, revealing that it was “a privilege to be in her presence again”.

“I’ve said to her that it is very nice to see her in good health. She seems to be in good health,” he said.

“I know that she and her sister have played tennis for a very long time.

“So they truly respect, admire the game. They also understand tennis, which is great.

“It’s wonderful to have that kind of support from the Royal Family.”

After a great deal of speculation arose as to whether she would return to award the winner’s trophies, Catherine delighted royal enthusiasts when she arrived at Wimbledon to a standing ovation.

Catherine has been largely absent from the public eye following a two-week hospital stay in January where she underwent major abdominal surgery. It was later revealed, in an emotional video message, that she had been diagnosed with cancer and would be taking time away as she undergoes treatment.

Taking to social media, Catherine revealed that it was “great to be back” at the prestigious tennis tournament.

“There’s nothing quite like The Championships,” she wrote alongside photos from the event.

Catherine’s return to the public eye comes after she recently revealed that she is “making good progress” in her cancer battle.

In her first official statement since revealing her diagnosis earlier this year, Catherine expressed her gratitude to supporters for their encouraging words and provided an update on her recovery.

“I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months. It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times,” she began.

“I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.

“My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home.”