‘Gutted’: Prince William points emotional assertion as England’s World Cup dream crushed by Argentina in tense semi-final

In an emotional assertion shared to the Prince and Princess of Wales’s Instagram web page, William, 44, stated he was “gutted” by the defeat, however praised Harry Kane’s workforce for the “fight and belief” they displayed all through the event.

“Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you,” William began his message.

“Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament.

“The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high. W.”

Shortly after the sport, the Royal Family additionally issued an announcement reacting to the loss.

“Commiserations to Harry and the workforce. While you Three Lions could also be licking your wounds at this time, you stay the pleasure of a nation – and can rise once more,” a spokesperson wrote.

On Thursday morning, defending champions Argentina secured their place in the World Cup final after two late goals overturned England’s initial lead.

They will now take on Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Monday at 5am (AEST).

A host of famous faces were spotted in the crowd for England’s last game, including David and Victoria Beckham and Mick Jagger, but Prince William has been noticeably absent for the entire tournament.

This came as a surprise to many royal fans as William is an avid soccer fan and has cheered on his national team in numerous tournaments over the years.

During a recent appearance on Travis and Jason Kelce’s New Heights podcast, the Prince of Wales declared he would “positively” travel to the United States to watch England should they reach the final.

He did not explain why he has not attended any other World Cup 2026 games, but a royal expert believes it’s because he wants to “give precedence” to Princess Kate, 44, and their children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight.

“[William and Kate] give priority, wherever possible, to bringing up a family,” royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told Celebrity Intelligence.

He also claimed William may be apprehensive about visiting the United States so soon after his father King Charles completed his state visit in April.

“Royalty has to be used sparingly. Handling this with care gives it a special cachet,” the commentator added.

Prince Harry, who relocated to California with wife Meghan Markle in 2020, has also been absent from the games, but did publicly back his national team by declaring “I believe it is coming dwelling,” in his appearance on rugby star Joe Marler’s podcast.

Last month, Meghan, 44, also shared a photograph of Harry, 41, with his children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, in which Archie could be seen wearing an “England FIFA World Cup” T-shirt.