Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet’s “auntie” has received a special gift just hours before the launch of their mum Meghan Markle’s new podcast. Former American Tennis star Serena Williams took to her social media this week to reveal that she had been among the lucky A-listers and friends of Meghan to receive a surprise As Ever package in the post - a delivery to celebrate the launch of Meghan’s As Ever brand last week.

The ex-tennis pro seemed delighted about the gift, which consisted of a range of the brand’s new products. She was one of a number of famous faces to be given Meghan’s products, with Kris Jenner also receiving a box of goods.

However, royals fans were not surprised that Serena received one of the gift boxes, as Serena is so close to Meghan and Prince Harry’s family that she is considered to be an “auntie” figure to their two children Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.

This closeness was revealed last month just days before the release of Meghan’s Netflix show “With Love, Meghan”.

In a sweet clip uploaded to Instagram at the time, Serena could be seen playing a game called Candyland with Lilibet as Meghan watched on.

The Duchess filmed the heartwarming moment and captioned it: "When the aunties come to play and celebrate! Love you @serenawilliams.”

Meghan referred to Serena as an auntie to hint at their close friendship, even though she has no biological connection to either Archie or Lilibet.

It is believed that Archie and Lilibet have not seen their biological aunt and uncle, Princess Kate and Prince William, for some time, with Harry and Meghan having very limited contact with the royal couple over the last few years since moving to Montecito in 2020 and quitting royal life.

It is not known when the brothers and their families will next be together, with William and Harry failing to meet on the Duke’s occasional visits to the UK.