Princess Charlene of Monaco Turns 48: The Palace Unveils a New Official Portrait

On the occasion of her 48th birthday, celebrated on Sunday, January 25, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco paid tribute to Princess Charlene by releasing a new official portrait, captured by renowned photographer Éric Mathon. Refined and understated, the image reflects the strength and quiet dignity of the Sovereign’s consort.

The portrait brings to a close a particularly eventful year, during which the former Olympic champion from South Africa significantly increased her public and official appearances in the Principality, reaffirming her increasingly central role within Monegasque life.

Among the highlights of the year was her appearance at the Christmas Ball, where she captivated guests in an elegant white gown with a cape by Jenny Packham. Shortly afterwards, the Princess delighted Monaco’s children with the charitable show “Monaco sous les étoiles”, an initiative whose proceeds were donated to the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation and to the Monaco Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA), over which she presides. The year concluded with the traditional New Year’s address on December 31, delivered alongside Prince Albert II, Hereditary Prince Jacques, and Princess Gabriella.

Beyond her ceremonial duties, Princess Charlene continues to stand out for her tireless humanitarian and social commitment. Since founding her Foundation in 2012, she has been deeply involved in promoting water safety and drowning prevention, as well as education through sport. Throughout 2025, she took part in numerous charitable initiatives, including the Rokethon in November, where she participated accompanied by her chihuahua Harley, and a visit to Georgia in October in support of young Monegasque rugby players.

Her longstanding dedication to children’s causes was recognised in December with the Monaco Star Award, the first honour bestowed by the international committee of the Christmas Ball, highlighting the impact and consistency of her engagement.

From the National Day celebrations to the Monaco Grand Prix, and from the 25th anniversary of the Grimaldi Forum to the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, where she presented the Socrates Award, Princess Charlene left a lasting mark on 2025. The portrait released by the Palace is therefore not only a birthday tribute, but also a symbol of a figure who continues to embody elegance, dedication and a strong sense of institutional duty.