In a recent announcement that has caught the attention of royal watchers worldwide, Prince Harry is set to attend the 2023 Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, Germany, without the immediate company of his wife, Meghan Markle. The Duchess of Sussex, however, will join her husband a few days into the event.
The Invictus Games, a multi-sport event created by Prince Harry for wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel and veterans, is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 16. A representative for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex confirmed their attendance, expressing their delight in a statement sent to People magazine. The spokesperson revealed that Prince Harry would be present from the beginning, attending the opening ceremony and staying for the entirety of the games. Meghan Markle, on the other hand, will join him "shortly after the games begin."
Omid Scobie, co-author of "Finding Freedom" and often referred to as a close source to the Sussexes, confirmed the couple's plans on Twitter. He mentioned that while Prince Harry would be present from the start, Meghan would join him later during the competition. Both are expected to grace the closing ceremony, where Prince Harry will deliver a farewell speech. Additionally, Meghan Markle is slated to host the "Lifestories Scene" segment during the closing ceremony. This segment aims to shed light on the courage and resilience of the injured athletes participating in the games. Organizers have hinted that her contribution will be deeply moving, underscoring the transformative power of the games.
Meghan's association with the Invictus Games is not new. She has previously joined Prince Harry at past events, delivering the closing remarks in 2018 and the opening speech in April 2022 in The Hague, Netherlands. Their appearance in The Hague was particularly memorable, marked by a tender on-stage kiss. The 2022 competition will soon be in the spotlight again, as Archewell Productions' docuseries "Heart of Invictus" is set to premiere on Netflix on August 30.
In a heartfelt video message to the athletes, Prince Harry shared both his excitement and apprehension. He emphasized the healing journey that each participant is on, assuring them that the experience would be transformative.
Before the Invictus Games, Prince Harry has another significant event on his calendar. He will be in London for the WellChild Awards on September 7, a day before the first death anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II. It remains uncertain whether Meghan Markle will accompany him for this event.
The Sussexes' plans for the Invictus Games and their continued commitment to causes close to their hearts underscore their dedication to public service, even as they carve out a new life away from the British monarchy.
