Royal decoration for Sarina Wiegman: a fairy tale with Prince William

Sarina Wiegman was overwhelmed by the meeting with Prince William, who presented her with a rare royal decoration on Tuesday at Windsor Castle, while she later emphasized on the 538 Afternoon Show on Radio 538 that he was not so formal and they just shook hands.

Wiegman was appointed Honorary Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. It is not common for non‑Britons to be knighted. She receives the ribbon for her outstanding contribution to British football.

Sporting achievements

Wiegman led the English women's team to two European championships in 2022 and 2025 and to the World Cup final in 2023. Prince William received her on Tuesday at Windsor Castle. On Radio 538 she said that one should say ‘Sir’ and ‘His Royal Highness’ and can make a bow, but she just shook hands.

She added that the son of King Charles makes you feel at ease quickly. Wiegman called his ability to start a conversation straight away a ‘super quality’. According to her, the conversation was a friendly chat in which he got to know her family. She received a large medal‑like object and a certificate, which she will give a nice place at home.