The Queen of Denmark unexpectedly announced her abdication in her traditional New Year’s speech, News.ro reports with reference to Sky News. Margrethe II, who is 83 years old, will officially abdicate on January 14.

Queen Margaret II of DenmarkPhoto: Handout / AFP / Profimedia

“I decided now is the right time,” said Margrethe II.

She has been on the throne for 52 years.

Denmark’s eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, will become Denmark’s new monarch, she announced on Sunday in her annual New Year’s speech.

“In 14 days I will be Queen of Denmark for 52 years. Such a long time does not pass without consequences for any person – not even for me! Time is exhausting and the ‘bad days’ are becoming more frequent,” the Queen said after New Year’s greetings. “You can’t overcome the same things you’ve overcome before,” she said, most likely referring to the back surgery she underwent earlier this year, according to Danish tabloid Ekstrabladet.

“I decided now is the right time. On January 14, 2024, 52 years after succeeding my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I will hand over the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik,” the Queen announced.

She later expressed her gratitude for the support and help she had received over the years, which had “been crucial” to her being able to fulfill her role as Queen of Denmark.

“I hope that the new royal couple will be met with the same trust and affection as I am,” said the Danish sovereign.

At the end, the obligatory words “God save Denmark” were spoken by a visibly moved Queen Margrethe, the Danish publication notes.