Following the announcement of his newest grandchild, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, Prince Andrew has made his first public appearance.
Mirror reported that the Duke of York was having a good time while riding his horse in the Great Park of the Windsor estate, which is where he currently resides with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.
Ferguson has voiced her happiness over the arrival of another grandchild, and she has referred to her expanding family as her "five-a-side team."
Despite the fact that they divorced in 1996, the couple has four grandkids together: Sienna, who is three years old; August, who is also three years old; Ernest, who is one year old; and Wolfie, who is eight years old and is Princess Beatrice's "bonus" son from the previous marriage of her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.
Princess Beatrice and Edo have expanded their family with the arrival of their second child, Athena, adding to the number of members in their family.
Edoardo, the pleased father, posted a photo of his newborn daughter on Instagram, describing her as "tiny and absolutely perfect."
The immense love that the family has for Athena was expressed by him. He said, "Our hearts are overflowing with love for you, baby Athena."
Additionally, Edoardo expressed his appreciation to the faculty and staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for the wonderful care they provided during this momentous occasion.
According to Buckingham Palace, Athena was born on January 22 at 12:57 PM, weighing four pounds and five ounces.
Per the Daily Mail, the announcement said that "their Majesties, the King and Queen, and other members of the royal family have all been informed and are delighted with the news."
Athena is now eleventh in line to the throne, which moves Princess Eugenie down to the twelveth position. This is despite the fact that Athena will not wear the title of Her Royal Highness.
The good news comes at a time when Prince Andrew is being scrutinized for his prior ties, particularly with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sexual offender.
In addition to this, he is currently facing criticism for his business operations that are connected to a person who is suspected of being a Chinese spy.
Jennie Bond, a former royal correspondent for the BBC, offered her thoughts on the matter, pointing out that following a difficult year for the royal family, the year 2025 seemed to hold greater promise.
She emphasized the relevance of family for Prince Andrew, implying that his role as a doting grandfather has become increasingly significant over the course of his life.
Athena was welcomed by Ferguson, who has been a steady supporter of Andrew throughout his controversies, with a public message that was full with love and pride during her arrival, saying, "I'm incredibly blessed to be a granny once again."
Business Times has reached out to Prince Andrew's representative for comments.
