Surprising new frontrunner: The unexpected name for Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan's baby
The first child of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is arriving anytime now, and the speculation surrounding the royal baby’s name has been heating up as an unexpected candidate emerges as a frontrunner.
In recent weeks, names such as Diana, Elizabeth and Alice (after Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth and Princess Alice) have dominated betting lists around the world. However, a new unexpected name has quickly climbed up to the top: Grace.
The name is popularised by the late Princess of Monaco and former actress Grace Kelly, whose journey to royalty mirrored that of Duchess Meghan.
While the gender of the baby is yet to be confirmed, betting sites such as Sportsbet.com.au have seen more gamblers backing girls’ names than boys’ names.
Another unconventional name among the frontrunners is Allegra, which is Italian for “cheerful” or “joyous”.
Alex Apati of Ladbrokes told PEOPLE that he also found the rising popularity of the name to be unexpected.
“We’re scratching our heads as to why we’ve seen so much interest in Allegra, but the bets are coming in thick and fast and it’s been by far the most popular pick of the month with punters,” he said.
According to the Daily Mail, Allegra was a favourite of the late Princess Diana, who wanted to use the name on her own child if she had given birth to a girl.
However, Diana remains the most popular choice among bookers with the odds being as low as 4-1.
For the most popular boys’ name, Arthur takes the top spot, followed by Edward, James and Charles.
While observers expect Baby Sussex to arrive soon, the birth plans have been kept private. “Their Royal Highnesses have taken a personal decision to keep the plans around the arrival of their baby private,” a statement released by Buckingham Palace read.
“The Duke and Duchess look forward to sharing the exciting news with everyone once they have had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a new family.”