Princess Madeleine of Sweden gave birth to a baby girl in New York on Thursday last week, with the royal saying she is “overwhelmed” with the new arrival.
The Swedish royal, 31, delivered the baby on the night of Thursday 20 February, and the Royal Court officially announced the news last Friday. She posted a photo on Facebook of her new child’s footprint on husband Chris O’Neill’s forearm, with the caption “I’m overwhelmed” underneath. More than 20,000 followers ‘liked’ the picture.
O’Neill, who briefly spoke to reporters, said the baby daughter weighed 3.15 kilos and was 50 centimetres in length. He said that has brown hair and brown eyes, adding that she looks just like her mother.
He went on to reveal that there were no complications and Madeleine was doing fine. He explained that everything went smoothly from start to finish, noting that the princess is a very strong woman. He gave no hint as to what the baby would be called, only stating that he and his wife had discussed possible names.
News of the new arrival led to a number of high-profile congratulatory messages from royal family members. King Carl XVI said they are filled with joy and hope Madeleine and Christopher can enjoy this special time with their new baby in peace and quiet.
Princess Madeleine’s sister Crown Princess Victoria released a joint statement with her husband Prince Carl Philip, saying that they are delighted Madeleine and Christopher are now parents and look forward to seeing the new family. They added that their daughter Estelle is very curious about meeting her new cousin.