The royal family issued a statement as their beloved Princess was forced to skip a major event at the last minute after falling ill. Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands was due to attend the Dutch Ballet Gala on Monday.

The former monarch has attended the annual event regularly for many years. The royal palace had confirmed earlier that she would attend the prestigious cultural gathering.

The official statement released by the palace stated that Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands would attend the 28th edition of the Dutch Ballet Gala. This major event of the Dansersfonds '79 Foundation was scheduled at the Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam on Monday evening, November 2.

This year, the prominent ballet gala is specially dedicated to renowned choreographer David Dawson. However, just hours later, a sudden update was released by the palace officials.

The revised notification read that Princess Beatrix is unfortunately not attending the gala due to a severe cold. The former Dutch queen is a regular and enthusiastic guest at the event, which celebrates artistic excellence in the region.

Over the years, the 88-year-old royal has frequently attended this grand ceremony alongside her family members. She has often been accompanied by her son King Willem-Alexander and her younger sister Princess Margriet during past editions.

The royal has typically enjoyed robust good health throughout her long life and public service career. However, back in 2023, she had to undergo medical surgery after fracturing her wrist during a skiing accident.

At that time, the royal house had officially stated that the former monarch was otherwise in good health and would recover peacefully at home. Organizers expressed their disappointment over her absence while wishing her a swift and complete recovery from the illness.