Kate was hesitant to become Princess of Wales because the title was associated with Diana.

Prince William and Kate Middleton. (Instagram @princeandprincessofwales)

JAKARTA - Kate is said to have hesitated to accept the title of Princess of Wales or Princess of Wales in 2022. The reason is that the title is still very closely associated with the late Princess Diana, the mother of Prince William.

The Mirror quoted Monday, August 10, saying the story was revealed in the biography William and Catherine: The Intimate Inside Story by the media's royal editor, Russell Myers.

According to Myers, Kate personally expressed her doubts to William and her father-in-law, King Charles III. He realized the great love and closeness of the British people to Diana, even 25 years after her death.

Kate received the title of Princess of Wales after Charles ascended the throne and William was given the title of Prince of Wales in 2022.

Myers wrote that Kate understands the long history attached to the title. However, she wants to establish her own identity in the royal family, separate from Diana's still strong legacy.

"Catherine fully understands the history attached to the role, but she is determined to find her own path," Myers wrote, quoting palace officials as quoted by The Mirror.

A former senior official who worked for William and Kate said Kate needed a little push before she finally accepted the title.

According to Myers, Kate is aware that comparisons with Diana are difficult to avoid. However, he feels that he can carry out the role in his own way while still respecting the position that Diana once built in the royal family.

The former official also said Kate wanted to shape her own role, both for herself and her family. The approach is considered different from the way some previous generations of the royal family carried out their duties.

King Charles announced William and Kate's new titles in his first speech as king.

"Today, I am proud to raise him as the Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the title of a country that for most of my life and service I have been so honored to wear," said King Charles.

King Charles also said that Prince William and Kate are expected to continue to inspire and bring issues of people in need of attention to a wider space.

When accepting the title, a royal source said Prince William and Kate wanted to build trust and respect for the Welsh people gradually.

William and Catherine: The Intimate Inside Story reviews William and Kate's journey from meeting at St Andrews University to their life in the royal family today.