The first photograph of Kate, the Princess of Wales, since her abdominal surgery almost two months ago surfaced on Sunday, ending weeks of speculation about her whereabouts.
However, the image was swiftly retracted by The Associated Press and other news outlets due to suspicions of manipulation, sparking further speculation.
The photo, depicting Kate seated with her three children, was attributed to her husband, William, the Prince of Wales and future heir to the throne. It was claimed to have been taken earlier in the week in Windsor.
Photo of Kate Middleton Following Surgery Retracted Due to Suspected Image Manipulation (Credits: ABC News)
“Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months,” Kate expressed on social media. “Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day.”
Initially published by AP and distributed by Kensington Palace, the image was later rescinded after closer scrutiny revealed inconsistencies that did not align with AP’s stringent photo standards. Notably, Princess Charlotte’s left hand displayed an apparent misalignment.
The release of the photograph came after weeks of speculation on social media regarding Kate’s whereabouts following her discharge from the hospital on January 29, following a planned surgery. She had not made any public appearances since Christmas Day.
