Sports enthusiast, gifted in languages and a modern view of royalty.
Queen Margrethe announced during her New Year’s speech that she would abdicate. A surprise for the world, because her resignation was almost unexpected. Following her abdication, Frederick became king of Denmark in January. Time to get to know the new king a little better.
Life story of King Frederik
Since January 14, 2024, Frederik André Henrik Christian can call himself the King of Denmark. He is the eldest son from the marriage of Queen Margrethe of Denmark and Prince Henrik. He was born on May 26, 1968 in Copenhagen, Denmark. He attended high school in Copenhagen, where he graduated in 1986. He studied political science at Harvard and Aarhus University. After graduating, Frederik worked for a year as secretary of the Danish Embassy in Paris.
Social functions
After working as secretary for a year, Frederik held positions in the army, including in a commando unit. In addition to his positions in the army, he also fulfilled many other social functions. For example, he was a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 2009 to 2021 and participated in climate conferences.
Sports enthusiast
His involvement in the Olympic Games was partly due to his passion for sports. The king is therefore very sporty and is interested in several sports. In the past he has often participated in marathons and triathlons and he also participates in several water sports.
On the Instagram of the Danish Royal House, the king regularly shares photos showing his presence at sporting events. For example, in November the king was present at a training of the female handball team, which was preparing for the world championship.
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Language skills
King Frederik has a real talent for languages. The king can speak no fewer than four languages fluently, namely Danish, French, German and English. Handy, because this language knowledge contributes to his role as international representative of Denmark.
Meeting his wife
In 2000, Frederik met his wife Mary during the Olympic Games in Sydney. They meet for the first time in a cafe. After the meeting, a long-distance relationship followed, after which Queen Margrethe announced in 2003 that the two were engaged. The royal wedding will take place on May 14, 2004.
Brood
In 2005, Frederik and Mary welcomed their first son: Christian. in 2007 the birth of Princess Isabella followed and four years later, in 2011, the twins Vincent and Josephine were born. Frederik and Mary choose to give their children as ‘normal a childhood as possible’. For example, the children go to public schools and do not receive private education.
Modern view of kingship
King Frederik and Queen Mary are therefore considered modern and accessible. They try to find a balance between a normal family life and their royal duties. Just like our Oranges, Frederik and Mary regularly organize photo sessions and share photos via social media. On the other hand, the press leaves the family alone and respects their privacy.
That doesn’t always go well – see also Fred’s trip to Spain at the end of last year – but in general Frederik and Mary are a very popular royal couple. Who knows how they will develop in their new roles in the coming years!
Source: Royalty Online, Blauw Bloed | Image: NL Image, Instagram @detdanskekongehus
