Father of Kate Middleton’s new equerry admits he does look like tennis superstar Roger Federer – but says he’s better at military manoeuvres than hitting aces and will be asset to the Princess of Wales

The father of Kate Middleton’s new equerry has admitted his son does bear a striking resemblance to tennis superstar Roger Federer.

Royal fans have been quick to remark on how much Lt. Col Tom White looks like the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, his father Garry said friends first noticed the resemblance when Federer became the world’s number one for the first time, back in 2004.

‘He has a look of Roger Federer – all our friends comment on it, said Garry outside his home in Portsmouth, Hampshire. Quite a few people have commented that frequently.’

The dashing former Royal Marine Commando, who was this week named as the new Private Secretary to the Princess of Wales, is also a talented tennis player – but not quite up to the standard of his doppelganger.

Garry, 66, a former Government worker, said: ‘He has played tennis but not to the standard of Roger Federer’ before adding ‘I wish he could play like him.’

Garry said his son was a keen sportsman and while he did not talk about his new royal role, he couldn’t hide his pride at his military career.

‘Ultimately, he is a Royal Marine Commando, and we are really proud of what he has achieved’ he said. He has come from pretty humble beginnings.’

The love of sports for White and his 37-year-old wife Stephanie is evident from photos on their social media. One photo shows the happy couple smiling while enjoying a snowboarding holiday in Vermont in the US.

They had previously lived in Exeter near White’s regiment, 42 Commando, and close to his parents in Portsmouth.

Royal fans were quick to remark on the similarity in looks between White and 42-year-old Federer when his appointment was made public.

The Swiss star has, over the years, formed a close friendship with the Princess, an avid tennis player and fans.